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The Illusionist (Full Screen Edition) Feb 11, 2010 A young boy falls in love with a girl that is way above his social standards along with the art of magic. Although the parents forbid them of seeing each other they cannot be split apart. Until one day they were found together and the boy was sent off. He became a magician and traveled the world. She fell in love with another man, the Crown Prince. The two got engaged but the boy, Eisenheim, finally meets back up with the girl and uses his powers to free her from the royal house in Vienna. This movie is stunning in many aspects. Visually in terms of locations, inside and out, there was great consistency and a nothing seemed strained. The story weaved fluidly through these locations and seemed to make the locales a vital part of the story. Ed Norton and Jessica Biel are superb. The story is fresh and imaginative, very intriguing. Highly recommended.
1 of 1 found the following review helpful:
A Gorgeous, Gripping Film about Love and Magic Jan 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
PRETTY GOOD..I BOUGHT IT Jan 06, 2010 didnt know how the magic part would be, but it was pretty convincing, Ed did a great job..try "painted Veil" also
1 of 1 found the following review helpful:
This is what a magic movie should be Dec 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 of 1 found the following review helpful:
Absolutely loooooooooooooooooved this movie! Nov 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!
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