The Prestige

February 07, 2007

The Prestige (2006) starring Hugh Jackman, Christian Bale, Michael Caine and directed by Christopher Nolan. This is one of two magician movies that are currently out at the theaters right now. The other is The Illusionist (2006).

Now what would posses someone to pick this movie about magicians over the other movie about magicians? Well to start with Christopher Nolan directed Batman Begins (2005) and Memento (2000) so as a director he has caught my attention. Plus since they'll never make a movie where Batman (Bale) squares of against Wolverine (Jackman) this is probably as close as I am ever going to get.

Now the Prestige is a movie about two rival magicians that are in competition to be the world's greatest magician. They constantly steal each other secrets until one has a trick that cannot be topped.

Every one involved in this film is giving performances that will stand the test of time. Bale and Jackman play perfect rivals that will do anything to amaze the world with their magic. What is at stake for these two is their souls. So how far they will go in their quest to be the world's greatest magician is what this movie is all about.

The story itself is told in two different time lines and with multiple flash backs. However Nolan is the master of telling a story out of sequence. Memento (2000) more than proved that.

There is a love story that revolves around the two magicians. But as in some films where the love story is used to bring something to the female audience. Here in The Prestige it is used to further the plot and it is also used to keep the audience questioning who we are seeing (if that is vague I am sorry, it has to be to keep my non-spoiler promise to you).

So pay attention and keep trying to figure out exactly how Bale is pulling off "the transported man". The Prestige keeps you guessing and keeps you wondering well into the parking lot. I suggest see it with some friends and talk about the final moments. You will all have different interpertations.


Click here to read the staff review by Mania.