Count on Norton

Rating: 8/10 (15 September 2006)

I have to give the guy credit, besides maybe The Italian job, which was because of contractual obligations, he always picks the right movies to be a part of.
I must admit I probably would have skipped this one if Norton wasn't in it. He's one of those actors for me that I will see a movie he is in, no matter what the genre or story. I was pleased with this movie.
Paul Giamatti probably took the rug out from under Norton in this one however. He is just fabulous as the police detective assigned to keep tabs on Norton's magician character. Giamatti's quirkiness and facial expressions make him a joy to watch. Jessica Biel didn't do anything to detract from the film, which is good i guess, in fact she is not bad in it. Norton, Giamatti, and Biel I must say all hold those Austrian accents very well.
The story is somewhat predictable and losses steam in certain parts. The ending you can sort of see coming but the film as a whole is an enjoyable mysterious romance.
Great sets and costumes. The visual effects are also well done, very subtle, which for this film is a necessity.