The Illusionist (2006)

Genre: Drama

Average Netflix Rating: 3.8 stars

Synopsis: With his eye on a lovely aristocrat (Jessica Biel), a gifted illusionist named Eisenheim (Edward Norton) uses his powers to win her away from her betrothed, a crowned prince (Rufus Sewell). But Eisenheim's scheme creates tumult within the monarchy and ignites the suspicion of a dogged inspector (Paul Giamatti). Set in early 1900s Vienna, this lush period drama from writer-director Neil Burger earned an Oscar nod for Best Cinematography.

Every so often 2 major studies get the same idea and 2 movies come out close together that are very similar (right now they are making 2 big budget live action versions of Snow White). Sometimes one movie is much better then another (Deep Impact vs Armageddon) and sometimes they are both incredibly well done. The Illusionist and The Prestige came out the same year, The Prestige was an action packed thriller filled with twists and turns that kept the watcher on edge from start to finish. The Illusionist was a complete 180, a slow burn of a who-done-it. The Illusionist is a beautiful period drama romance, it's focus is more the beauty of storytelling. Its a beautiful film filled with drama, romance and murder. Where The Prestiges main focus was the magic and the tricks, here the magic is more scenery. By giving the magic a backseat it makes the story become the main puzzle. A puzzle I regretfully say is not 100% answered. My other issue?? I hate Jessica Biel, she's easy on the eyes but can't act her way out of a paperbag, BUT she somehow manages to pull this off. Maybe it's Bc she just has to be sexy and/or lifeless for most of the movie. I will also say that either the ending was very cliche or it's some sort of twist that I don't understand (Pay attention to her sleeve sleeve)...

Where should you put it on your Q? Towards the top (and while your there put The Prestige too)

LINK: http://movies.netflix.com/WiMovie/The_Illusionist/70043951?trkid=2361637