Featured Film Review
The Illusionist (2006)
Tagline: Nothing is what it seems
Directed by: Neil Burger
Featuring: Jessica Biel, Edward Norton, Paul Giamatti, Rufus Sewell
Website: www.theillusionist.com
As a young boy Eduard Abramovich (Edward Norton), the son of a cabinetmaker, falls in love with Sophie (Jessica Biel), the daughter of a duke. Eduard is chased away for loving Sophie and travels the world in pursuit of magic. Fifteen years later, he returns to Vienna and becomes the hit of the city as the illusionist Eisenheim. During one of his shows the Crown Prince Leopold (Rufus Sewell) attends with his girlfriend the duchess Sophie von Teschen, and Eisenheim calls Sophie to the stage.
The crown prince insists Eisenheim should come to his party to perform again, so he can show his subjects that he is smarter than the acclaimed illusionist Eisenheim. However, things blow up in his face and Leopold wants Eisenheim out of the city. Then, Sophie is found dead and in pursuit of the truth Eisenheim starts a new kind of show, calling on the spirits of the death.
I really enjoyed this film. It is beautifully done and until the final scene I didn't know what really happened. A wonderful story of illusion and truth... but which is which?
Reviewer: Branwynn Annwn
A love tale more than anything, this film is a wonderful depiction of "Magic" on many levels. Young Magician finds a "wizard" by chance and this sparks him on his journey to find the mystery that is magic and life. He returns as an adult((edward Norton)) only to remeet his childhood friend((Jessica Biel)) He does wonderous magic. The illusions are wonderful and the imagery and scenes are wonderful. Love is emphasised in a grand way. Id love to tell this movie in my own way, but Id give it away. 3 and a half stars for this film. Definately for all ages and a great film overall.
Reviewer: Raine