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Nothing is what it seems… right? When watching the enticing new film “The Illusionist,” directed by Neil Burger (“Interview with the Assassin”), that thought must be kept in mind.
Created by the producers of “Crash” and “Sideways,” “The Illusionist,” starring Edward Norton (“Fight Club”), Paul Giamatti (“Lady in the Water”), Jessica Biel (“7th Heaven”), and Rufus Sewell (“The Legend of Zorro”), tells the story of love, rivalry and, of course, magic.
It is the turn of the century in Vienna, and the infamous Eisenheim (Norton) lures audiences from all over to watch him perform his captivating illusions.
Among his tricks are making an orange tree grow right before his viewers’ eyes, bringing the souls of the deceased to appear on stage, and many others that convince Eisenheim’s devoted fans that he can perform miracles.
Upon hearing about Eisenheim’s illusions, the Crown Prince Leopold (Sewell) attends his performances, and intends to destroy Eisenheim’s reputation with the help of his Chief Inspector Uhl (Giamatti).
Although infatuated with Eisenheim’s performances, Uhl wants to get behind the tricks and see for himself how Eisenheim makes these so-called “miracles” possible.
During one show, Eisenheim requests the assistance of an audience member who “does not fear death” and Leopold volunteers his future fiancCB)e Sophie von Teschen (Biel), not knowing that Sophie and Eisenheim were once childhood sweethearts.
Reuniting with Sophie motivates Eisenheim to accomplish his greatest illusion yet – one that Sophie had long ago asked him to do.
Secret rendezvous put Eisenheim and Sophie’s lives in danger, yet make both of them closer.
Although Sophie is engaged to Leopold, her heart belongs to Eisenheim, and the one trick the famed magician has not been able to achieve thus far is letting go of Sophie.
He turns his attention to being able to be with her and making her wish come true.
The film keeps the audience guessing with its many illusions and twists.
The actors keep the plot moving with ease and are very convincing in their roles, delivering one surprise after another.
The graphics used to create each illusion are impressive and do not look animated by any stretch.
Though the plot is not extremely easy to follow, the reward is an ending that leaves audiences with a feeling of intrigue and a newfound faith in the magic that is true love.
