The Illusionist (2006)
Posted in: Movie Reviews on January 31, 2007 at 5:54 am by Glenn.
The Illusionist (2006)
My Rating: 9/10
Netflix summary: Set in early 1900s Vienna, Neil Burger’s romantic thriller centers on illusionist extraordinaire Eisenheim (Edward Norton), who falls for an aristocrat (Jessica Biel) well above his social standing. When she becomes engaged to Crown Prince Leopold (Rufus Sewell), the master magician employs his powers to win her love. His daring scheme creates tumult within the monarchy and ignites the suspicion of Chief Inspector Uhl (Paul Giamatti).
Edward Norton was awesome. Again, he goes back on my favorite actor list. Jessica Biel, who I absolutely hate, I absolutely loved in this movie. She is now one of my favorites! Paul Giamatti… can he do no wrong? He was also brilliant. And who’s Rufus Sewell? Whoever he is, he’s awesome. So we have four brilliant performances in a simple story that seems more complicated that it really is. It’s a smart film, with excellent performers, with a solid ending – told from the POV of Inspector Uhl – which gives you the suspension of disbelief you need in order to believe in magic!
I loved this movie. From a magician point of view (and that’s me), you can say, come on, give me something real… but it’s as ‘real’ as you can get really – especially when told from a ‘spectators’ point of view.
There have been many times I did a trick (or illusion as I like to say) when the spectator relates the trick back to me, or someone else, and only 10% of what he says is what I actually did. From a simple card trick to something a little more, well, gadgetry.
I recommend The Illusionist for the romance, for the drama, for the magic and most of all, the performances!
