This is a rather exceptional sleeper. No one paid it much heed after the debut of The Prestige, so it fell into the category of the second of two movies with a similar concept debuting around the same time, much like Saving Private Ryan and Thin Red Line, Truman Show and EdTV, etc. Though I LOVED The Prestige, this film, much overlooked by critics and the public, is an entirely different animal altogether. The use of symbolism and subtlety is incredible. Though not as sensationalist as The Prestige, The Illusionist is in a class by itself. The acting, direction, story, everything is perfect. This is a perfect example of why you shouldn't always trust box office numbers and reviews when considering what to watch. Edward Norton and Paul Giamatti are perfect as always, and it is a wonderful and unusual tale, one of those where you always see something new every time you watch it. If you like strong stories and depth, rather than sensationalism (which of course also has its place), you will adore The Illusionist.
Review of The Illusionist
