"The Illusionist" has several tricks up its sleeve, not the least of which is Edward Norton's impeccable performance as a master magician in turn-of-the-century Vienna. Norton plays Eisenheim, a conjurer whose tricks are so astonishing they border on the uncanny. Make that, the unnerving. Not only can he bring an orange tree to full bloom in seconds and bid butterflies to materialize out of thin air, but it would appear he can summon the spirits of the dead. Read the full review
Eisenheim is a stage magician who amazes the audiences of turn-of-the-century Vienna, drawing the attention of Crown Prince Leopold. When the Prince's intended, Sophie von Teschen, assists the magician onstage, Eisenheim and Sophie recognize each other from their childhoods — and a dormant love affair is rekindled, forcing Eisenheim to execute his greatest illusion yet.
Director: Neil Burger
Starring: Edward Norton, Paul Giamatti, Jessica Biel, Rufus Sewell, Eddie Marsan
Run time: 109 minutes
Release date: August 18, 2006
Rating: PG-13 for some sexuality and violence.
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The Atlanta Journal-Constitution: B
"... may be nothing more than a lot of smoke and mirrors, but it's always entertaining."
Austin American-Statesman: 2 of 5 stars
"Given the lack of dexterity on display when the filmmakers turn to sleight-of-hand themselves ... it's not surprising that Eisenheim's illusions never quite seem to be more than just that."
The Palm Beach Post: A
"The film hinges on the understated, yet mesmerizing performance of (Edward) Norton, a genuine showman behind a demonic beard."
The Associated Press: C
"The bleak action ... ultimately tumbles into an artificial and unsatisfying conclusion."
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