The Prestige (2006): The rivalry between two magicians is exacerbated when one of them performs the ultimate illusion. (8.4)
Director: Christopher Nolan
Stars: Christian Bale, Hugh Jackman and Scarlett Johansson
My inability to keep track of who's who comes a full circle in this movie because of the storyline, the use of disguises and also the similarity of faces. That wondering of who is this guy again takes away from the enjoyment of the moment in the story. Then the story is also told as a part of two diaries. That makes is even more complicated. At the beginning, we are told the three parts to a magic act. But, towards the end, we find out that one of the acts isn't really magic but sort of science fiction. That took away the whole 19th century travelling magician act. In that sense, I liked The Illusionist's ending better. But, for keeping the secret and keeping the suspense going, this movie did a far better job. Wonderful acting and the very well done period scenes and costumes. Michael Caine doesn't steal the thunder from his younger colleagues. The casting couldn't have been better. My Rating: 7.0
