The Illusionist starring Edward Norton

The Illusionist, starring Edward Norton, Jessica Biel and Paul Giamatti is one of the most beautifully crafted motion pictures that I've seen in a long time. The photography, lighting, and set design bring together the look and atmosphere of Vienna at the turn of the century, creating the perfect setting for Eisenheim the Illusionist (played by Norton) to perform his miraculous tricks of magic. Eisenheim returns to the city of his birth after a fifteen-year absence only to meet the love of his childhood, the Duchess Sophia (played by Biel) at one of his shows. The love between he and Sophia is still alive, but she's now destined to marry the Crown Prince Leopold (played by Rufus Sewell) in just a few weeks, and Leopold is the type of man who would easily kill the both of them if he knew about their secret passion for each other. As Eisenheim becomes the talk of Vienna with his outstanding illusions, Leopold quickly learns about the connection between his fiancé and the mysterious magician through the investigations of Chief Inspector Uhl (played by the excellent Paul Giamatti). The Crown Prince becomes firm in his desire not to lose his fiancé to another man, especially one of such low class. If he can't have her, then no one can. A tragedy takes place which forces Eisenheim onto a path of what appears to be self-destruction, or is it perhaps the greatest illusion of all as he seeks his personal revenge against Leopold? This is the question that will have you glued to your seat in avid anticipation.

I was as surprised by the ending as Chief Inspector Uhl appeared to be. I never saw it coming, which is somewhat unusual for me. This was due to a well-written script and excellent performances by all the lead actors. It's been a sincere pleasure to watch both Edward Norton and Paul Giamatti grow as dramatic actors over the last twelve years. When each of them take on a role, they literally become the character, and that's what great acting is all about. They certainly succeeded in this film. In fact, everything came together perfectly in The Illusionist: the strong direction and magnificent script by Neil Burger, the terrific acting by everyone in the cast, the superb photography and set production, and the great musical score. Not only was this a great movie, but it's also one that will become a cult classic over the next decade! Highly recommended to those who enjoy well made art films and dark suspenseful thrillers