The Prestige

Reviewed by:
Pete Hammond

Already in 2006 we've seen two movies dealing with magicians (The Illusionist and Scoop) and now a third, The Prestige, that ironically reunites Scoop co-stars Hugh Jackman and Scarlett Johansson. But that film used Woody Allen's comedy as its hook, and Illusionist was essentially a romantic take. Director Christopher Nolan (Batman Begins, Memento) has other ideas, proving once again his brilliance behind the camera as he crafts one of the year's best films. It's a complicated tale that allows Jackman and Christian Bale as rivals in turn-of-the-century London to take revenge to new heights. The press notes describe this movie as a "mystery structured as a cinematic magic trick," and go on to warn critics not to reveal too much about the "deceptions at the heart of the film." We wouldn't think of it. After all it's the twists and turns and sleight-of-hand storytelling that makes this all such pure fun to watch unfold. Suffice to say Jackman and Bale are aspiring magicians who start out as friends and partners until their biggest trick turns tragic, resulting in a death that sparks a rivalry that knows no end. On his own, Jackman becomes a master showman and the more successful of the two while Bale is a creative genius looking for a way to steal the spotlight with a super illusion that becomes the obsession of his archenemy. In case you're wondering, the title refers to the third act of a magic trick—the part where it appears lives are endangered and shocking revelations are in store. Take that to heart, as this dazzling film and first-rate thriller holds you spellbound (and doesn't let go). This is moviemaking at its absolute finest. And that's no illusion.

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