Directed by Christopher Nolan (Memento, Batman Begins) and fraught with suspense, romance, rivalry, ambition, science and science fiction, The Prestige is a story that transcends time and era. We can all relate to the magicians as today's idols and celebrities, each with their own tabloid-fodder lifestyles; but when their rivalry turns deadly it's cinematic all the way.


A dark, complex story full of twists and turns, complete with flawed heroes and voice-over narration – The Prestige is pure Victorian noir. No doubt it is a strange, sometimes convoluted, gritty tale filled with twists and turns and ups and downs, and it boasts two lead characters who are not especially likeable... This is not usually a recipe for box office success, but let's hope that some of the names behind The Prestige will lure more than a few folks in.


Note: Although both big "magic" movies this year garnered 4-stars from me (a rating of "Excellent"), The Illusionist pulls off the trick of being a more absorbing, more enjoyable and satisfying film.