Spellbinding romantic masterpiece.

Rating: 7/10 (9 January 2007)

Fascinating drama and powerful love story. Audiences in turn-of-the-century Vienna are stunned, mesmerized and gravitate to the acclaimed illusionist Eisenheim(Edward Norton). The mysterious magic man draws the attention of Crown Prince Leopold(Rufus Sewell), who feels that he and his title has been besmirched; when his intended, Sophie von Teschen(Jessica Biel),assists the magician with an illusion, Eisenheim and the lovely young woman realize they had a childhood romance. Suspense builds as the Prince assigns the city's chief inspector(Paul Giamatti)to shut Eisenheim down. Sophie is found dead and a high profile investigation begins. Eisenheim helps the case by performing his most impressive illusion yet. Norton is superb; Biel alluring and Giamatti convincing. THE ILLUSIONIST is mind-bending and worthwhile.