The Illusionist (2006)

The Illusionist is an intriguing and satisfying film about star-crossed lovers, monarchical politics and whether a magician called Eisenheim the Illusionist is just a gifted magician or someone truly conjuring up the darker side of the spiritual realm.

The film stars a group of very talented actors, including Edward Norton as Eisenheim, Paul Giamatti as Inspector Uhl, Jessica Biel as Sophie and Rufus Sewell as Crown Prince Leopold. The story revolves around the troubled love story between Eisenheim and Sophie. Eisenheim is a peasant, Sophie, an aristocrat. Their childhood romance ends badly and Eisenheim disappears for 15 years, only to return possessing with what appears to be supernatural powers.

Sophie's and Eisenheim's paths once again cross and it begins a dangerous and interesting journey full of magic, misdirection, conspiracies and royal abuses of power. The Illusionist is an enjoyable movie filled with strong performances and an intricate, interweaving plot.