A Gorgeous, Gripping Film about Love and Magic
Added 1/24/2010
Based on Steven Millhauser's short story and set in early 20th century Vienna, The Illusionist captures what art house production companies do best -- stunning cinematography, an inventive tale, emotional resonance, excellent acting, and a cinematic magic that transcends the illusions in the plot itself. Eisenheim the Illusionist (Edward Norton), the son of a carpenter who trained himself in the art of magic, has created a stir in Vienna when he arrives, seemingly out of nowhere, to charm the city with his spectacular illusions. When the Crown Prince Leopold (Rufus Sewell) volunteers his soon-to-be fiancee as a subject in one of Eisenheim's most terrifying tricks, all starts going very wrong between the two men -- one a mere magician and carpenter's son and the other the most powerful man in the city.
Ed Norton exudes mystery and charm as Eisenhem, but his is not the only memorable performance. Jessica Biel as Sophie, the woman of his dreams, is both sensuous and conflicted. The chemistry between Norton and Biel is palpable, even if it may be too muted for some viewers. Paul Giamatti's Inspector is likewise complex, both in his loyalty to the Crown Prince and in his personal fascination with Eisenheim. The best part of this story is not the traditional themes of class division and love but rather the atmosphere of the period combined with dark illusions that suggest a Faustian deal with the devil and death.
A first-rate film, The Illusionist is marred only by the occasional predictable plot elements. Even if you guess the end, as I did, you'll enjoy every minute of watching it unfold.
-- Debbie Lee Wesselmann
1 out of 1 people found this helpful.
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PRETTY GOOD..I BOUGHT IT
Added 1/6/2010
didnt know how the magic part would be, but it was pretty convincing, Ed did a great job..try "painted Veil" also
0 out of 0 people found this helpful.
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This is what a magic movie should be
Added 12/20/2009
As a magician, I was excited when I heard that this movie was coming out. Not only that, but for some reason, there were two magic movies coming out near the same time. Hmm? Some people are sure competitive. Anyway, I think it was great for the magic community.
I loved The Illusionist. It had the perfect balance of magic with a great mystery tale that ensnared my attention. Nice star power and outstanding lighting and music. The twist at the end is great and something that I never expected. For me, until something better comes along, this is the one movie that makes a magician proud. Norton is just great as a magician and Biel is Wow. Snuggle up and enjoy this gem.
1 out of 1 people found this helpful.
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Absolutely loooooooooooooooooved this movie!
Added 11/26/2009
I absolutely loved this movie. It really kept my husband and I guessing. Great plot for people who like a little more than just entertainment out of a movie. The acting is superb as well!
1 out of 1 people found this helpful.
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A Magician Never Reveals Their Secrets
Added 10/22/2009
Kasey Morton Block 2
Everything is not as it may seem magic is just an illusion. The movie The Illusionist is a wonderful movie about a magician who performs many magnificent illusions. He grows famous by everyone and along his journey, finds his long lost love that was taken away from him as a child. Although many love him, the magician faces many problems; he always seems to escape those problems. I recommend this movie because one it ahs adventure. A woman comes face to face with death, but will she survive? Two it has romance, the magician finally finds his love, but will they able to stay together? Three there is suspense, you can't stop watching the movie. In the movie The Illusionist, you'll see the biggest illusion yet!
0 out of 0 people found this helpful.
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A Gorgeous, Gripping Film about Love and Magic
Added 1/24/2010
Based on Steven Millhauser's short story and set in early 20th century Vienna, The Illusionist captures what art house production companies do best -- stunning cinematography, an inventive tale, emotional resonance, excellent acting, and a cinematic magic that transcends the illusions in the plot itself. Eisenheim the Illusionist (Edward Norton), the son of a carpenter who trained himself in the art of magic, has created a stir in Vienna when he arrives, seemingly out of nowhere, to charm the city with his spectacular illusions. When the Crown Prince Leopold (Rufus Sewell) volunteers his soon-to-be fiancee as a subject in one of Eisenheim's most terrifying tricks, all starts going very wrong between the two men -- one a mere magician and carpenter's son and the other the most powerful man in the city.
Ed Norton exudes mystery and charm as Eisenhem, but his is not the only memorable performance. Jessica Biel as Sophie, the woman of his dreams, is both sensuous and conflicted. The chemistry between Norton and Biel is palpable, even if it may be too muted for some viewers. Paul Giamatti's Inspector is likewise complex, both in his loyalty to the Crown Prince and in his personal fascination with Eisenheim. The best part of this story is not the traditional themes of class division and love but rather the atmosphere of the period combined with dark illusions that suggest a Faustian deal with the devil and death.
A first-rate film, The Illusionist is marred only by the occasional predictable plot elements. Even if you guess the end, as I did, you'll enjoy every minute of watching it unfold.
-- Debbie Lee Wesselmann
1 out of 1 people found this helpful.
|
PRETTY GOOD..I BOUGHT IT
Added 1/6/2010
didnt know how the magic part would be, but it was pretty convincing, Ed did a great job..try "painted Veil" also
0 out of 0 people found this helpful.
|
This is what a magic movie should be
Added 12/20/2009
As a magician, I was excited when I heard that this movie was coming out. Not only that, but for some reason, there were two magic movies coming out near the same time. Hmm? Some people are sure competitive. Anyway, I think it was great for the magic community.
I loved The Illusionist. It had the perfect balance of magic with a great mystery tale that ensnared my attention. Nice star power and outstanding lighting and music. The twist at the end is great and something that I never expected. For me, until something better comes along, this is the one movie that makes a magician proud. Norton is just great as a magician and Biel is Wow. Snuggle up and enjoy this gem.
1 out of 1 people found this helpful.
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