Filmmakers too often rely on plot concepts that are as old as the conception of moving pictures themselves. "The Illusionist," written and directed by Neil Burger ("Interview with the Assassin"), is no different.
"The Illusionist" highlights the story of a boy that is poor and a girl that is rich. They love each other and predictably the powers that be will not allow their love to blossom.
The classical prose is set alive from the opening credits. The actors speak in Austrian accents and the orchestral music is fast-paced when it should be and nearly non-existent during slow moments.
Eisenheim, played by Edward Norton ("Down in the Valley"), loves the well-off young Sophie, played by Jessica Biel ("Elizabethtown"). Unfortunately, Sophie's noble blood makes their relationship impossible.
Fast forward fifteen years, and Eisenheim has long since disappeared while Sophie is about to attain royal status by marrying Prince Leopold, played by Rufus Sewell ("The Legend of Zorro"). With the stage set in this age-old fashion, Eisenheim returns as Eisenheim the Illusionist, a magician capable of performing spellbinding tricks.
Narrating the tale is Chief Inspector Uhl, played by the reliable Paul Giamatti ("Lady in the Water"), who serves as Prince Leopold's lab dog, continuously hiding his true emotions from the royalty he protects.
After Eisenheim gains his fame, Prince Leopold and Sophie attend his magic show where Sophie is picked for a demonstration. This initiates the reunion of the childhood lovers and the central conflict. Unfortunately, Norton and Biel simply lack the natural chemistry to convince the audience that they are love.
The film maintains its retro style yet also evolves as it progresses, becoming more complex than expected. While under the watchful eye of Uhl, Eisenheim turns one too many tricks, falling only a step away from being arrested. His magic has spooked and embarrassed the arrogant Prince Leopold.
The acting is solid while Burger's script is at times corny but consistent in its attempts. Norton's performance is solid, considering the dialog he is given. Though the talented and dedicated actor holds his own, his lead role seems to lack the juice necessary for an actor with such capabilities.
Most of the film involves Chief Inspector Uhl and his engaging sub-plots. Giamatti plays the character perfectly and provides enough meat during the flimsy moments before leaving the viewer with a conclusion to chew on with satisfaction.
The film ultimately reveals itself to not only be merely a classical film, but rather a neo-classical film, incorporating recent screenplay tricks not seen in the old black and whites.
Shamefully, this entertaining and nicely put together film will only leave the viewer with a feeling of mild satisfaction.
Photo: Courtesy of Laron Fomby
