Ed and Paul

Obviously, this time of year is great for catching up on missed flicks and munchin’ old school popcorn. The fact that I’ve seen two films in the magic and illusion genre right after each other – albeit in different languages – is purely circumstantial. Sort of. Come to think of it, I actually watched “The Holiday” in between. And that feature had very little magic in it. Still, it wasn’t a complete waste of time.

Anyway, it isn’t often, but once in a while a movie will grab me like few others can. The Illusionist is one of those. It has everything it takes to leave a huge smile on my face – long after the credits had rolled off screen. This is a must see film.

I can only assume the two main characters, played skilfully by superb actors Edward Norton (American History X, Fight Club) and Paul Giamatti (Sideways, Lady in the Water) had a brilliant script to work with and director Neil Burger’s creative freedom to allow them to develop each scene to its fullest potential.

Loosely based on Steven Millhauser’s short story “Eisenheim the Illusionist”, the film is played out in and around 19th century Vienna with gorgeous backdrops and dreamy landscapes. And the sepia tone used in most scenes adds even more visual flavor. Unsurprisingly, “The Illusionist” is nominated for an Oscar. Hope it wins.