Absolutely magical!!!

Rating: 10/10 (9 October 2006)

In a time when so many films are driven either by mind-dizzying special effects, lurid sex, or gratuitous blood and gore, this film was an absolute pleasure on all levels. Edward Norton was riveting as Eisenheim and the others in the cast were equally up to the task. The costumes were beautiful, the music was lush and atmospheric, and the story was delightfully convoluted. Though set in Vienna, much of the movie was filmed in Prague; it deserves its reputation as one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. It struck me about halfway through the film that if Caleb Carr's "The Alienist" ever comes to the screen, I would want it to look much like "The Illusionist". Truly a feast for the mind and the eyes. Run to see it!!!