Kevin and I decided to re-watch The Illusionist
In fact, I’ve never once watched it with the twist unspoiled. The first time I saw it in the theater – and while we were waiting in line for our tickets, two women came out of the previous showing talking very loudly about the surprise at the end. I could have gladly strangled them both!
The Illusionist is set in turn-of-the-century Vienna. A magician named Eisenheim has shown up and is stupefying audiences with his nature-defying conjurations. He isn’t in Vienna simply to perform, however – he wants to see his old childhood friend Sophie (Jessica Biel). Sophie is a duchess now, and is engaged to be married to Crown Prince Leopold, played wickedly by Rufus Sewell. Eisenheim and Sophie renew their love for each other, but the Crown Prince isn’t about to let Sophie reject him. When tragedy strikes, Eisenheim sets out to get revenge the only way he knows how – through magic.
This movie is suspenseful, beautifully filmed, and full of wonderful performances. The Chief Inspector that Leopold assigns to investigage Eisenheim and his magic is played by Paul Giamatti, one of my favorite character actors. Every time I see him in a film, I am amazed at how he is able to slip into any character like putting on a glove.
If you haven’t already seen The Illusionist, you definitely should – it’s entertaining and mysterious and well-acted.
5 out of 5 bags of popcorn
Twitter: youvegottaread
says:
This movie blew me away. I have been a fan of Edward Norton since Primal Fear and The Fight Club. I was even happy to take the kids to see The Hulk last summer so I could sit and watch him for a couple of hours!
I absolutely ADORE Edward Norton!! Every single movie he is in is great and this is one is no exception! I can’t believe you have never seen the movie without the twist being spoiled…when my husband and I saw it for the first time we literally gasped out loud! Thanks for the review!
Twitter: lakesidemusing
says:
I love this movie, too! Thanks for reminding me about it… it’s time to watch again.
Wow… 5 out of 5! COOL!
P.S. I like your new favicon!
Great review. I have not seen this one I should make an effort to get my hands o it.
We loved this movie too!
Twitter: booksandmovies
says:
Sandy – I went to see The Incredible Hulk with my best friend – we were the only two women in the theater, everyone else were boys and men.
Obsessed Reader – I know, I wasn’t very happy with that lady!
JoAnn – yes, it is definitely good enough to watch multiple times.
Sheri – Thanks, Sherry – hubby did that and I had to ask him what a favicon was!
Caspette – yes, definitely watch it!
Kathy – I’m always ready to re-watch an Edward Norton movie.
This is one of my ALL-TIME favorites. I ADORE The Illusionist. I love that it can stand up to multiple viewings. I think knowing the twist enhances a repeat viewing rather than spoils it, which is rare for any film. I clap along with Paul Giamatti at the end every. single. time.
I don’t get to watch a lot of movies, but this one really sounds excellent. I love movies that stand the test of time, and are somewhat challenging.
Great review!
Twitter: booksandmovies
says:
Ruth – I absolutely love that part – the acting Giamatti does in that scene as he realizes everything – all without a single line spoken. He’s brilliant!
Phyl – thanks!
Twitter: Karenzwriter
says:
Loved this movie, too! I wish Edward Norton did more films.
Twitter: booksandmovies
says:
Scobberblotch – me, too. I think he’s very picky about the movies he does, and that’s why he doesn’t do more.
How is it possible that I haven’t seen this yet. I love Edward Norton and I’ve heard such wonderful things about this film. I’m going to put it at the top of my Netflix queue right now.
Twitter: booksandmovies
says:
LF – Good – I’m sure you’ll like it!
I’m almost positive that I’ve seen this one. How rude that those people spoiled it for you!
Twitter: booksandmovies
says:
Ladytink – yeah, I wasn’t very happy about it!