When Eisenheim was a young boy, he had two life-defining experiences. First, he met a magician that opened his eyes to a mysterious and alluring world. Second, he became best friends and fell in love with a girl called Sophie, who was way above his social class.
When he grows up (Edward Norton), he comes back to Vienna. He starts putting on sold-out shows that amaze and entertain everybody. His success intrigues the chief police (Paul Giamatti) and pisses the hell out of the crown prince (Rufus Sewell) who is usually quick to expose any “magic” and he has the services of the chief at his disposal.
Eisenheim isn’t intimidated by either of them. He is extremely frustrated to realize that he still has deep feelings for Sophie (Jessica Biel), who is expected to marry the crown prince.
I dare not say any longer- I am scared to give any spoilers.
Why should you see this?
* From the moment this movie starts, it takes, it takes you in. Edward Norton is absolutely amazing and graceful as the smart, talented and romantic Eisenheim.
* Paul Giamatti is just brilliant as the police who we can’t tell whether he is going to go all evil on us to serve the prince or he will respect intelligence, love and true character.
*Oh, the Crown Prince is evil. The performance of Sewell is really cool as usual. Shame that he had to cover his face with all the mustache and beard but hey, all the (male) charm and beauty belongs to Edward Norton here.
What you need to know about the movie is that, it is a smart)drama/ thriller/romance. I love it much, much more than The Prestige. Prestige plays all its smartypants cards to soon, drives up your expectations- only to disappoint in the end. This movie does not have one irrelevant line or scene. It might have fewer twists but it never disappoints. I’d say at 7.7 on IMDB, it is underrated.
Other Edward Norton
https://pinartarhan.com/blog/the-painted-veil-with-naomi-watts-and-edward-norton/
Other Giamatti