Masterpiece of allegorical fiction

Rating: 10/10 (21 October 2006)

This movie works on many levels: and thats what makes it great.
The Prestige is a roller-coaster ride, a sweeping tale of intrigue and malice as one magician tries to one-up the other and vice versa. Twists and turns abound, possibly even some loops, as the movie approaches an inspired climax that doesn't waste the previous hours the viewer spent watching the movie (*cough* Shyamalan *cough*).
Like Mement, another Christopher Nolan masterwork, this is a movie that will keep you thinking long afterward. Not only must the viewer come to grips with the winding plot but he or she can also ponder the concepts driving the details. For me, this was a movie about identity, what people do to stay elusive and one step ahead of your competition, not to mention the results thereof. It still amazes me the little details I can remember and place meaning upon that I didn't really think much of at the time. I would put examples, but the best ones I can think of are plot spoilers (and I wouldn't ruin the movie for my good readers).
A few of my friends thought this movie was a bit too long though they still enjoyed it. As for me, I thought it the perfect length. There wasn't a moment wasted throughout.
The Prestige follows through with top-notch performances by Christian Bale, Hugh Jackman, and Michael Caine with well-done performances by the ladies and other supporting cast members as well.