A Magical Story

Rating: 8/10 (25 June 2013)

A magician's trick is his alibi, his lure, his identity. At a young age, all Eisenheim(Edward Norton) wanted to do was disappear with his love, Sophie(Jessica Biel). The two were from different casts but did not care for social differences, yet the aristocrats interfered with their relationship and broke them apart, leaving their love forever unfulfilled...
The Illusionist is a fantastic film that not only displays the genuine love between two destined individuals, but brings viewers on a journey which reveals the depths of it. Although this movie is fictional, it is the plot and imagery that gives The Illusionist its sheer beauty.
Everyone has a love for magic deep within them. Some grow out of it at an early age while others continue their passion. Whether Eisenheim practices magic primarily due to his love for the art or for Sophie is subject to debate, but he certainly demonstrates the true power of his heart.
Viewers can argue about the validity of various details and the discrepancies of the plot with the time frame, but regardless of any inaccuracies, the true meaning of The Illusionist is found in its core - the story. This tale about a man and a woman keeping their spark alive through the most difficult of times is a beautiful one that deviates from the standard mold of contemporary romance, and shows that love is magical.