Not Today, Double Fantasy

Rating: 8/10 (22 October 2006)

Greetings again from the darkness. Comparisons with "The Illusionist" will abound as both are 19th century pieces centering on England's fascination with magicians and illusionists during that period. Although the settings are similar, it is important to note that "The Illusionist" is at its core a love story, while "The Prestige" is the tale of dueling illusionists and their fierce, even deadly, competition to be known as the BEST.
Christian Bale and Hugh Jackman are the competing masters of illusion and after an onstage accident caused by Bale causes the death of Jackman's true love, the quest for best takes off on tangents that few could predict. To help confuse the issue, another master of illusion directs the film! Christopher Nolan brings his warped "Memento" twists and turns to us so that we, as viewers, are left floundering at what the next trick will be.
The cast includes Michael Caine in a pretty strong role and Scarlett Johansson, who is given little to do other than squeeze into an assistant's costume and wear gobs of lipstick. There are nice turns from Piper Perabo ("Coyote Ugly"), Andy Serkis ("LOTR", "King Kong") and David Bowie (yes, THAT David Bowie) as world renowned scientist Tesla, who himself is in a competition with Thomas Edison.
Although many of the plots twists are pretty easy to see coming, it is nonetheless a joyous ride for those of us who enjoy a wild screenplay. And it must be noted that Bale is just outstanding as his brooding and near mystical presence adds a great deal to the film. So chalk up another victory for Mr. Nolan, and please don't give away any of the fun to those who have not seen the film.