The Illusionist

One of two movies about magicians that came out in 2006, this one featured Edward Norton in the title role and costarred Jessica Biel, as the love interest, Paul Giamatti and Rufus Sewell.

[SPOILER PARAGRAPH] Norton and Biel meet as youngsters, he the poor kid, she the rich heiress from an aristocratic family, and feel a deep attraction from the beginning. Unfortunately, given the difference in social status, a relationship is out of the question, and he is forced to leave town. He’ll be back a famous illusionist, whose secrets the local prince (Sewell) is eager to uncover. Given that the prince is due to marry his childhood sweetheart, a fierce competition ensues, stoked by Giamatti, the local chief of police.

Norton, one of the greatest actors of his generation, dazzles us with yet another great performance, followed by Giamatti, an actor that can only blame his poor looks on his lack of bigger stardom. Biel, whom I hadn’t even recognized and reminded me the whole time of Scarlett Johansson, played a simple part that didn’t require much more than just looking sad and pretty. Sewell was an interesting discovery. Certainly a good actor, his stern facial features probably limit the roles he can be cast in.

Overall, the movie is pretty good and offers up an interesting mystery. Of note is certainly the cinematography, with its dark and aged tones, which makes us feel like we’re peeking into a window open over the past. The score, by Philip Glass, is subtle, romantic, and intriguing and the editing masterfully sets up the many twists the movie goes through.

I would definitely recommend this movie for anyone into magic, Norton, or well crafted films.

Grade: 7