Too often I will go to a movie and think that the movie I'm watching has borrowed its plot from this movie, a twist from another movie, and more. The Illusionist has broken that increeasingly worrisome trend.

Set in Vienna at the turn of the 20th century, the Illusionist is a single flashback (no annoying semi stories in and out) about a cult hero, Eisenheim (masterfully played by Ed Norton). From his childhood we see his fascination with magic and a budding romance with a dutchess of the Austro-Hungarian Empire (played by Jessica Biel who, to my surprise, played royalty with class and elegance). 15 years later, Eisenheim has returned from his trips to Russia and the Orient, learning the mysteries of the world, to puzzle full theaters in Vienna with his illusions. In addition, Eisenheim again meets his childhood crush who is now engaged to marry the abusive and scheming Prince of the Austro-Hungarian Empire (played extremely convincingly by Rufus Sewell, with the exception of an annoyingly crooked moustache) who needs to marry Biel as a political move to assist in his overthrow of the Emperor. After Biel is found dead, Paul Giamatti (in another excellent performance) begins to investigate the murder, true to his duty, but frightened to arrest the Prince.

For a 2 hour movie, this movie moves extremely quickly, engaging the viewer into the time set and having you sit on the edge of your seat, trying to figure out how the movie will resolve (and being further surprised when the twist takes place!). Also, and most surprisingly, you will start to question what you know about magic and illusion, especially in light of Eisenheim;s latest tricks!

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Recommended: Yes

Movie Mood: Serious Movie
Viewing Method: Other
Film Completeness: Looked complete to me.
Worst Part of this Film: Nothing