The Illusionist
Screenplay written by: Neil Burger based upon the short
story
”
Eisenheim the Illusionist
”
Actors: Edward Norton, Paul Giamatti, Jessica Biel, Rufus
Sewell, Eddie Marsan
Directed by: Neil Burger
Rated: PG-13 (Some sexuality and violence)
The Illusionist
Screenplay written by: Neil Burger based upon the short story “Eisenheim the Illusionist”
Actors: Edward Norton, Paul Giamatti, Jessica Biel, Rufus Sewell, Eddie Marsan
Directed by: Neil Burger
Rated: PG-13 (Some sexuality and violence)
In turn-of-the-century Hapsburg, Vienna, an intense magician operating behind flickering gas footlights in a struggling theater by the name of Eisenheim (Edward Norton) is captivating audiences with his astounding magical illusions. When Crown Prince Leopold’s (Rufus Sewell) fiancee is volunteered to assist him one night, the Duchess Sophie von Teshen (Jessica Biel) and the incredible magician rediscover each other to rekindle an unrequited childhood love transcending time and their stations in life. However, the clandestine love affair is observed and reported to the Prince by Police Inspector Uhl (Paul Giamatti) who initially serves the cruel ruler for personal gain despite Eisenheim’s admirable but unexplained skills that could land him in jail for either fraud – and despite Uhl’s inner conflict from the murderous truths he deduces.
He Said:
The excellence of the direction and cinematography in the first few scenes of The Illusionist give you only an inkling of the quality to come. Then it gets better and better for the next hour and 49 minutes, in which I admired every aspect of this film. By then, the masterful way the story unfolded has become secondary to the quality of the acting. I’d say that this film is unique to others, bettering other film efforts this year in nearly every aspect. If you’re in the mood to put aside the escapism of dazzling pyrotechnic effects and loud adrenalin inducing sound and want to appreciate the sheer quality possible in filmmaking, there is nothing that can come close to “The Illusionist” so far this year.
On the R&R Scale (1-10):
8 for script: Smart, Intriguing, and uniquely subtle in detail.
9 for direction: Brilliant cinematography, pacing, and settings.
8 for acting: All excellent, Giamatti brilliant.
8 for plot: A well-paced story of intrigue that resonated.
8 for entertainment value: Without peer, but its early in Oscar season.
8.2 overall
She Said:
After you see this film, you may wonder if this drama’s quality is so extraordinary on its own or simply in contrast to the studio offerings of the past season. Lush and sophisticated, “The Illusionist” definitely marked the passing of the many shallow box office grabbing summer blockbusters. Even if it stood alone, its quality truly offers an exceptional modern day film masterpiece of story telling and acting reminiscent of the film-noir days of cinema at its best. Sepia infused, brilliantly written and finely textured in every other respect, this carefully honed creation would have been noteworthy on those merits alone. But when you add Paul Giamatti’s performance that was as memorable as it was in his Oscar heralded performance in “Sideways” and couple it with the quality of Edward Norton’s and Jessica Biel’s astounding contributions – this visually beautiful film of extraordinary nuances becomes a “Must See” to be appreciated. It eclipses all others so far this year.
On the R&R Scale (1-10):
10 for script: Just enough precise illusion and intrigue to be spellbinding.
9 for direction: Neil Burger’s finest effort.
10 for acting: Should garner Oscar buzz, nominations, and wins.
9 for plot: Beautifully intricate in every respect.
10 for entertainment value: As sophisticated and beautiful as it is engaging.
9.6 overall: Best this year thus far.
