Battle of the Magicians

Rating: Null/10 (25 April 2010)

Nolan's 'The Prestige' is full of magic and surprises. Based on Christopher Priest's absorbing novel, Nolan brings it to life on screen. The story develops from interesting premise about two magicians, who were once friends, now turned into rivals. But the strength of the storytelling lies in how the events unfold with its twists and turns, keeping the viewer in sheer suspense and wonder while at the same time never losing its main focus. The director has an eye for visuals and almost each and every frame of the movie is very intricately detailed. The film is set during some time in the Victorian era but I liked that it still felt contemporary rather than a period piece. Yet, that is not to say that the art direction does not deserve mention. Quite the contrary because toning it down had a brilliantly subtle effect. Likewise, the cinematography too is effectively downplayed. The score flows smoothly. Hugh Jackman delivers one of his best works to date. The actor is simply excellent as the caring and easy-going turned into ambitious, competitive and vengeful magician. Christian Bale too is impressive while Michael Caine almost always knows how to deliver a memorable performance and here he's no different. Scarlett Johanssen is quite forgettable while Rebecca Hall fairs better and Piper Perabo shines in a small role. 'The Prestige' is one of Nolan's best (along with his debut 'Memento') movies. Not only because it's spectacular to look at but it has all that I look for in a movie experience.