I liked it

Rating: 7/10 (21 May 2007)

Sometimes it's good to see movies that are not too pretentious, not too full of themselves. I don't know exactly how you spot them, and set them apart from the movies that just want too much. It's not necessarily the themes or the visual style, nor is it the script. But there is something there. The Illusionist tells a story in a straight-forward way while still letting you think for yourself. I like that.
The first notable thing about this movie is the acting. Edward Norton is one of my favorites, not least because his best work is usually quite minimalist. In this movie that is definitely the case. Norton is toned-down and excellent. Jessica Biel on the other hand shows that she is not just a pretty face, she does well. But the real star i found to be Rufus Sewell as the crown prince. I have know before that he's a good actor, but he excels here. His subdued rage and mood-swings are beautiful.
The second thing i noticed was the visual style. It has a very nice touch to it. It comes in pale, almost sepia-toned, colors with a very nice "old film"-style to it. The environments in Vienna are beautiful and the sets are a wonderful recreation of the late 19th century. The quite understated score from Phillip Glass complements the visual style nicely.
The third and last thing is the plot. I really liked the way that it's straight-forward and yet... not. Even after the movie stops rolling it's not so easy to say what you just saw. Was it real or was it illusions. Paul Giamattis character ends the movie with a laugh that's almost maniacal, and i know how he felt. Movies are about illusions and perceptions. The people making "The Illusionist" understands this. In a time when audiences are constantly underestimated, and points are driven in with a sledgehammer more often than not, a movie that leaves you thinking is worth a lot, even if the plot itself is not advanced nor exceptional.
This is hardly set to become a classic, or most peoples favorite pick for movie of the year. It's not that kind of movie. However it is proof that you can raise the bar with very small means, and make a solid movie just be respecting the audience. Very recommended. I rate this 7/10.