Captivating story, incredible illusions, and all around great film!

Rating: 7/10 (29 August 2006)

The illusionist is the first film I've seen in a while where I had no idea what it was really about. I have to say that I was not disappointed at all! The film has a good story that really draws you in with mystery and romance. The illusions done by Norton as Eisenheim the Illusionist are FANTASTIC! The give the film a novelty feel that you are watching both a magic show and a movie at the same time. Furthermore, I've seen that some people are worried that the film will give away some secrets of how the tricks are done, but don't worry, aside from one comical scene between Giamatti and Norton, most of illusions remain as such throughout the movie.
For the people who claim to be able to guess the ending, I agree with you, it is possible if you actively pay attention to whats going on instead of being drawn in by the overall story. However, I think that takes away from the fun of the movie, so unless you're the kind of person that must know how the trick is done instead of appreciating it for what it is, I would say, just sit back and enjoy the magic of The Illusionist.