The Illusionist

"Life and death. Space and time. Fate and chance. Theses are the forces of the universe. Tonight, ladies and gentlemen, I present to you a man who has unlocked these mysteries. From the furthest corners of the world where the dark arts still hold sway he returns to us to demonstrate how nature’s laws may be bent. I give you Eisenheim."

When I watched this film I couldn't help but think of the Prestige, not only because both films are about magic or that they were released at the same time...but because they are not what they appear. While "The Prestige" is mostly about the rivalry between two magicians, "The Illusionist" has the magician subtly challenging the heir to the throne (risque). While I enjoyed both films, I would have to say I liked "The Prestige" better not only because I like Christian Bale but because the script seemed a little more refined. BUT what I liked about "The Illusionist" was its raw nature.

Eisenheim (Norton) is a well-known magician. He has traveled the world and returns to his home country as a well-established name. Audiences are amazed by his illusions and mesmerized by his persona. When the Crown Prince, Leopold (Sewell), comes to a performance he brings his lovely fiance Sophie (Biel) who was Eisenheims childhood sweetheart. Eisenheim's love for Sophie leads to his battle with Leopold, putting Sophie and the local Police Inspector, Uhl (Giamatti) in the middle.

Inspector Uhl is the heart of the story, the narrator. It is from his perspective that we follow the story...which is not what it appears (like Eisenheim's illusions). Leopold, the Crown Prince, the type of character you love to hate...while Norton's Eisenheim is mesmerizing. The weakest character, in my opinion, is Sophie. I'm not sure Jessica Biel was the best choice for this part...yes, she's pretty but that isn't enough, and I found myself wishing for less of her and more of Edward Norton or Paul Giamatti.

Overall this film delivers. Every shot has a sepia/yellowish hue reminiscent of old photographs...mostly void of shocking colors (making the reds and greens all the more provacative). And remember...things, and people, are never what they seem!

Rent it once: It is suspenseful...and while you may think you know the outcome, you'll probably be fooled (unless you read the short story "Eisenheim the Illusionist" and then you'll know everything).

--: If nothing else this film is appealing to the eye...I wouldn't call the movie quotable, but is definitely worthwhile. (And I would suggest watching it with "The Prestige" to compare)

The Illusionist (2006) 110 minutes

Rating: PG-13 for some sexuality and violence

Director: Neil Burger

Starring: Edward Norton as Eisenheim

Paul Giamatti as Inspector Uhl

Jessica Biel as Sophie

Rufus Sewell as Crown Prince Leopold

Eddie Marsan as Josef Fischer