This is not the French animated film of the same name. You probably didn't think it was but I have to specify, because I did review that one. This came out the same year as The Prestige and got its ass handed to it. A sentimental little love story just could not compete with a juggernaut featuring Batman and Wolverine fighting for magical supremacy. But that doesn't mean The Illusionist deserves to be ignored. It's a vastly different movie from The Prestige and should be treated accordingly.Eisenheim the Illusionist (Edward Norton) is performing in Vienna, the seat of power for the Hapsburgs. His illusions are amazing and soon draw the eye of Leopold, the Crown Prince of the Holy Roman Empire (Rufus Sewell). Eisenheim only has eyes for the beautiful Sophie, Duchess von Teschen (Jessica Biel), whom he knew from their childhood. Sophie is betrothed to the Prince but longs to escape with the charming magician. The local Chief Inspector (Paul Giamatti) is warned to keep a very close eye on the pair. Tragedy strikes and the Inspector finds his loyalties at war with his own conscience.
I enjoyed this more the second time I watched it, which was years ago. I bought it at that time but only opened it this past week. And I enjoyed it even more this time. It just seems to be one of those films that grows on you. Keep a sharp eye out for young Eisenheim, played by Aaron Taylor-Johnson before he grew up into Quicksilver.
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