Movie Review of "The Illusionist"
Rated PG-13
By CK Movie Kid Jonathan Lack
Rating * * * * (out of 4)

It's not too often that circumstances merit two four star movies within one week of each other, (see my review of World Trade Center) but I was completely blown away with "The Illusionist." Perhaps part of it was that I knew nothing about it going in to it. (That of course, is the best way to see a film.) The Illusionist is very unlike anything I've seen before. It's a romance story, and a story of magic, and a mystery, yet is also a period piece with action and more thrown in.

To summarize the plot is difficult, as I really don't want to give more than a little bit away. Basically, the movie tells the story of an 18th century traveling magician Eisenheim, who returns to Vienna after traveling the world for fifteen years. At one of his performances, he meets his childhood sweetheart, Sophie, who is now engaged to the Crowned Prince. Eisenheim starts an war of wills with the prince for Sophie's hand.

Sound familiar? It did to me too. But like I said, it is unlike most films. Some critics have said the romance was predictable and formulaic, but if someone can show me a romance that is not predictable, I will show you a horse with wings. What is brilliant about the romance in this film is simply how it is executed; much better than in most films.

The film is very, very intriguing too. It is one of those rare gems where you are on the edge of your seat when all the characters are doing is talking. The film, though two hours, goes by fairly quickly due to the fact that you are so intrigued by the story.

The film wouldn't have been nearly as good without the performances of the actors. Edward Norton is excellent as magician Eisenheim, and Paul Giamatti is engaging as the chief inspector of the police investigating Eisenheim. Jessica Biel plays Sophie, and is excellent. Though her film career is just picking up, I think we can expect some great things from this actress.

I would recommend this movie to all over nine, because of some sexual content and complex material, but I think everyone should go and see this. You'll have a great time.

And before I finish, I'd like to add this movie to my list of Best Picture oscar nominations I started compiling with "World Trade Center." Each time I see a movie that should be up for this prestigious award, I'll add it to the list. (See review for full details.) The list now goes as follows:

1. World Trade Center
2. The Illusionist
3. ?
4. ?
5. ?

So keep checking my reviews to see what the next film to be added will be, though you probably won't see another one for a while.

So in short, go see "The Illusionist." You won't regret it.