Everything In Here Is An Illusion!

Rating: Null/10 (16 November 2014)

Together with Christopher Nolan's The Prestige & Woody Allen's Scoop, The Illusionist is one of the three films released in 2006 which explores the world of stage magicians and even though it doesn't quite reach the creative heights of Nolan's thriller, it's a neatly crafted period drama that manages to leave its own enchantments on the viewers' emotions, thanks to its brilliant direction, smart writing & sincere performances.
Set in late 19th century Vienna, The Illusionist tells the story of Eisenheim, a renowned illusionist who uses his magical abilities to secure the love of a woman far above his social standing. When she becomes engaged to the Crown Prince, who himself comes with a rumoured history of brutality towards women, Eisenberg tries to free her from her shackles thus causing a series of conflicts between him & the Crown Prince that doesn't end too well for one of them.
Written & directed by Neil Burger, the film remains his finest work to date and is narrated in a non-chronological but cleverly edited manner that keeps the viewers' emotions invested in its premise. Cinematography is undoubtedly gorgeous, the other technical aspects are pretty sound in its execution, and the performances by Edward Norton, Paul Giammati & Jessica Biel are excellent with Giammati impressing the most as the cop torn between his duty & allegiance.
On an overall scale, The Illusionist is more or less a love story encapsulated with elements of period drama that works as an intriguing, engaging & entertaining cinema from start to finish. There are moments when it leaves the audience a bit lost with its characters' actions & motivations but in the end, every piece of puzzle eventually fits. All in all, The Illusionist may not be that great a magic trick that'll be forever remembered but it's stunning enough to leave its viewers in a state of absolute bliss for a while. Thoroughly recommended.