Implausible story

Rating: 3/10 (16 November 2006)

The "ultimate magic trick" mentioned in the plot outline on IMDb involves such an unbelievable and unlikely happening that it conflicts with other thematic elements, and leaves one wondering whether this is a science fiction movie or a period movie about magicians. The whole plot is contrived. The movie is not compelling as a whole, only in parts. The acting is fine, but the dialog is often hard to follow--lines spoken too quickly and not distinctly. Don't expect a bright and sunny movie either--most scenes are filmed in dark and dingy sets. The movie starts out alright--two magicians competing for the best trick, but soon the plot devolves into a series of events where each main character seeks the "ultimate magic trick." Don't be fooled: this so-called "ultimate magic trick" is completely implausible, so the movie looses credibility and believability. If the movie had developed this part of the plot with more emphasis and detail it might have made for a more interesting movie, but as it is, the movie doesn't know if it wants to be a serious drama or a science fiction thriller.