Illusions are what we wish them to be

Rating: 10/10 (7 September 2006)

An excellent period piece, part fantasy, part mystery, all enjoyable. One almost expects Gandalf or Dumbledore to appear, .... Edward Norton brings the correct amount of brooding intensity to Eisenheim, while Paul Giamotti could be dogged without turning into Javert. History students and film buffs may recognize the allusions in the story to that of the real Crown Prince of Belle Epoque Austria, Rudolph Hapsburg (what do you think the hunting lodge is that is mentioned? It's Mayerling, also movie of the same name). The cinematography, with its fades and blurry edges of frame, add to the mysterious atmosphere of film. The score is haunting, who knew minimalist could be melodious?