"They don't make 'em like this anymore"

Rating: 8/10 (18 August 2006)

Late Summer often leaves us with movies that are high concept and low quality. (See "Snakes on a Plane.") Movies often get placed in the August doldrums because they are hard to market, as well. That must be the case for "The Illusionist" because it is a film of sterling quality. It had my audience gasping, laughing, clapping, and held us generally enthralled.
"The Illusionist" tells a story as old as the hills. Lower class boy falls in love with a young girl of royalty. Girl returns love. Boy and girl are separated. Boy leaves home, grows talented and swift-witted. Returns to win girl from evil Prince. Don't let this description discourage you. This movie takes this old tale and makes it fresh and gripping.
The young boy grows to be the illusionist Eisenheim (Edward Norton) and returns to his hometown of Vienna where he meets the Girl, Sophie (Jessica Biel) who is soon to marry the scheming Prince (Rufus Sewell). The illusionist, though, is not a boring do-gooder, but a troubled and intense craftsmen. You are never sure if his emotions and actions are genuine or are all part of a larger scheme. Chief Inspector Uhl (Paul Giamatti) is assigned by the Prince to keep track of the crafty Eisenheim.
"The Illusisionist" is filmed in sepia tones and uses much of the syntax of silent era films. It never becomes distracting, however. In fact, this movie is an excellent example of how to use special effects to benefit the story rather than as an end unto themselves. Eisenheim's illusions are a wonder to behold. The movie also includes one of our greatest character actors, Paul Giamatti. Go see if for no other reason than to enjoy his work.
This is the kind of movie that will have older audiences saying "They don't make 'em like that anymore." It's truly a throwback. The violence is negligible and more implied than explicit. The one sex scene is tame as well. It is an excellent, gripping story well told. That it is based on a short story should be no surprise given its storytelling economy. It is a succinct film with interesting twists that never stops moving. My parents are gonna live this one. (I really liked it, too.)