Amazon.com First screened in Europe and scheduled for limited release in the U.S., The Illusionist offers welcome proof that "arthouse" quality needn't be limited to the arthouses. Set in turn-of-the-century Vienna, this stately, elegant period film benefited from a crossover release in mainstream cinemas, and showed considerable box-office staying power--granted, teenage mallrats and lusty males may have been drawn to the allure of Seventh Heaven alumna Jessica Biel, who rises to the occasion with a fine performance. But there's equal appeal in the casting of Edward Norton and Paul Giamatti, who bring their formidable talents to bear on the intriguing tale of a celebrated magician named Eisenheim (Norton) whose stage performance offends the Crown Prince Leopold (Rufus Sewell), a vindictive lout who aims to marry Duchess Sophie (Biel), Eisenheim's childhood friend and now, 15 years later, his would-be lover. This romantic rivalry and Eisenheim's increasingly enigmatic craft of illusion are investigated by Chief Inspector Uhl (Giamatti), who's under Leopold's command and is therefore not to be trusted as Eisenheim and Sophie draw closer to their inevitable reunion. Cleverly adapted by director Neil Burger from Steven Millhauser's short story "Eisenheim the Illusionist," and boasting exquisite production values and a fine score by Philip Glass, The Illusionist is the kind of class act that fully deserved its unusually wide and appreciative audience. -- Jeff Shannon
Beyond The Illusionist
 "Eisenheim the Illusionist" and Other Stories |  Paul Giamatti in a More Loveable Role |  Magic Kits & Accessories |
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Description Unlock the mysteries of the year's most spellbinding film from the producers of Crash and Sideways! Oscar(r) nominees Paul Giamatti and Edward Norton lead an all-star cast in this "stunning" film (USA Today) that conjures an exhilarating blend of suspense, romance and mind-bending twists. The acclaimed illusionist Eisenheim (Norton) has not only captured the imaginations of all of Vienna, but also the interest of the ambitious Crown Prince Leopold (Rufus Sewell). But when Leopold's new fiancée (Jessica Biel) rekindles a childhood fascination with Eisenheim, the Prince's interest evolves into obsession...and suddenly the city's Chief Inspector (Giamatti) finds himself investigating a shocking crime. But even as the Inspector engages him in a dramatic challenge of wills, Eisenheim prepares for his most impressive illusion yet in this "mesmerizing" (Entertainment Weekly) and "beautifully acted" (Good Morning America) film that "teases you until the very end!" (The New York Times).
NOT THE PRESTIGE, BUT NOT BAD 
I didn't know quite what to expect from this film..frankly, im not a huge fan of Norton and Jessica Beil is no Meryle Streep, but I was pleasantly surprised with this movie, the pace is good, and Norton is very good, as is Giamatti, whom I always like. Rufus Sewell is very good as usual playing the villian, he has this flinty quality that really works well in this film. The twist is very good and i really didnt see it coming. Highly recomended..though i must advise you to watch the Prestige after this movie..when you see them you will understand why..hint:..The Prestige is much better movie.
The actors work their magic
Outstanding acting and a not-too-preposterous plot make The Illusionist a compelling and highly entertaining couple of hours. Paul Giamatti steals the show as the educated and sophisticated police inspector who must maintain order in the imperial capitol but is not just a stooge of the royal family. Edward Norton brings believable passion and control to the illusionist' role. Jessica Biel is surprisingly good as the romantic interest, and Rufus Sewell is villainous but not a caricature. This one holds your attention throughout and builds to a satisfying conclusion in which all the little details add up to something plausible. A far superior film to one with similar themes in a similar time and place, The Prestige.
Sigh...... Edward Norton
This was a fascinating movie and a bold trick to pull off! Originally a Steven Millhasuer short story, it would have been so easy for this movie to have failed, but the talented cast and crew actually produced a film worthy of Millhauser's rich story-telling. Edward Norton is a dream, a very lovely dream. How could any woman not be thoroughly in love with the Eisenheim character after seeing his performance? Jessica Biel as Sophie is surprisingly good - she really displays a great deal of maturity in this role and at the young age of 24; I predict she's got a bright future ahead of her as an actress. Giamatti was perfect - his performance was as strong as Norton's - his character a fascinating blend of contradiction and consistancy at the same time. Beautiful cinemotography, costumes, lighting, music. The orange tree scene is one of the most exquisite scenes I have ever watched. Didn't think it was possible to do Millhauser justice on screen, but this movie proves that it is.
Excellent
This movie is outstanding. Rob Schnieder's performance was incredible. Why are you going by the name Paul Giamatti? It is clear that you are Rob Schnieder even with the beard hahaha. You are not fooling anyone. I love how he laughs like a fool at the end. This movie was great. Buy it!!! Schnieder's performance is reason enough. I mean Paul Giamatti. Whatever Rob. That is the real illusion in the movie.
the Best Movie EVER
It is so good. All the acting is amazing (coming from a theater major.) The storyline is plausable. There are no plot holes. It is quite engaging. The romance aspect is perfect. Not too overdone. A must see for everyone. My family and I all have quite different tastes in movies (a horror/history buff, a romance/comedy fanatic, a blood and guts/adventure lover and an educational fan) and we all loved it. So, take my advice. If you don't buy it, at least watch it twice. The second time is so much better than the first. And it just keeps gettting better and better.