"Perhaps there is truth in this illusion."

Rating: 8/10 (7 January 2007)

A highlight of 2006 that stands out above the rest, Neil Burger's "The Illusionist" is a superbly crafted period piece that manages to succeed in being both an endearing historical drama as well as an absorbing and suspenseful mystery/thriller.
For starters, I was especially intrigued by the filmmakers' somewhat "avant-garde" approach in making this film in the sense that they always seemed to be conscious of conveying the film as a truly dated period piece혰and by that I mean their use of certain film-making methods (i.e. the use of irises as a transitional device; a technique that is rarely if ever used in contemporary cinema and was usually common in the era of silent films). Such methods succeeded in giving the film an overall aura of antiquity. I really liked that the filmmakers' tried something different, and it immediately grabbed my attention as a sincere film enthusiast.
Aesthetically, the film was strikingly picturesque. Cinematographer Dick Pope certainly deserves kudos for bringing such a vibrant and plush quality to an expectedly dreary and lackluster turn-of-the-century Vienna. Every frame was appropriately toned to fit the sentiment of the scene, which only helped to heighten the film's overall effect. And though its not his most noteworthy comprehensive work, I was especially fond of Philip Glass' accompanying score. His trademark minimalist, tonal style was a welcome delight and successfully aided in communicating a sense of enchantment and fantasy that aptly matched the film's narrative.
The film's casting was brilliant across the board: both Edward Norton and Paul Giamatti are exceptional and personal favorites of mine and, in my opinion, are two of the utmost talented (and at times underrated) actors working today. They always prove themselves to be incredibly diverse in their career choices and are both blessed with the capacity of undergoing transformation in order to mold themselves into a particular role, making the characters they play that much more believable. I thought they sparred exceptionally well together and I always relished the moments they shared on screen. As always, Norton is nothing short of spellbinding; I was practically hanging on his every word, gesture and subtlety. I'm so glad he finally decided to take the plunge and partake in a period piece for the first time in his career that has spanned over 10 years. For a supporting role, Giamatti seemed to stand out just as much as Norton, if not more. I almost feel as though Chief Inspector Uhl was the main character in the story and not Eisenheim혰I'm not entirely sure if that should be accredited to Giamatti's acting or to the format in which the story unfolded, but perhaps it's a little bit of both. And I must admit I was especially impressed by the usually pedestrian Jessica Biel. Never in a million years did I think she'd be capable of being convincing in a role like this, but she somehow managed to exude poise and grace on an almost effortless scale. Rufus Sewell was also memorable as the brooding and maniacal Prince Leopold혰he is always able to startle me whenever he goes on his burly tirades: the moment, for instance, when he strikes Sophie across the face with a slap she didn't anticipate, and her cheek slowly flushes into a painful looking crimson was especially disturbing.
If you're wondering if this movie is a life-changing experience or whether it will be the recipient of prestigious nominations/accolades come awards season, I'd decidedly say probably not. The central plot and the overall outcome were not especially unique or innovative by any means; you might in fact call them "predictable". I contest, however, that that did not lessen the enjoyment I had while watching the film. You have to remind yourself that despite the triteness of some age-old stories that have been done time and time again, there are other elements added into the mix that can turn a "been there, done that" story into something refreshing and relevant. You will find that with "The Illusionist".
I reiterate that this is without a doubt one of the better and more impressive films to have come out of 2006. For grossing almost $40 million at the box office alone, that is an impressive feat for a film of this variety and is one of many indications that "The Illusionist" vouches to enlighten and entertain those who have the pleasure of viewing it. From an avid film watcher who has tendencies of dishing out harsh criticism, this comes highly recommended혰so don't pass it up!