Good acting and cinematography cannot save a weak plot and script

Rating: 5/10 (25 September 2006)

I really wanted to like this film but I simply couldn't. I predicted the ending as soon as it was possible to do so. Eisenheim (the Illusionist) didn't fool me, and he probably won't fool the moderately shrewd moviegoer either. The film didn't tie up a variety of loose ends and the plot was all over the place. The script was average at best. In fact, some of the dialogue struck me as not being accurate to the period being portrayed in the movie. All of the other aspects, however, of the period portrayal were excellent. The cinematography was impressive and contributed to the feel of the movie, which did a great job of placing the viewer in moment. Unfortunately, the plot was too weak to hold the movie together and there are many questions left unanswered. Some might argue that the film is supposed to leave the viewer asking questions. I, however, thought that is was more a result of sloppy film-making and a plot with several gaping holes. The opening scene didn't even match itself when it was shown again toward the end of the film. Everything was there except a solid plot or mystery. I have a feeling that "The Prestige" will do a much better job with virtually the same concept.
5 out of 10