The Illusionist

directed by Neil Burger

with Edward Norton, Pual Giamatti, and Jessica Biel

In Vienna at the turn of the century, celebrated illusionist Eisenheim has become so popular that his show is attended by the Crown Prince of the Austro-Hungarian empire. Little does the prince know that his fiancee, Duchess Sophie von Teschen, is the very reason Eisenheim left home to travel the world and learn his magical trade. The lovers reunite during his performance, when she responds to his request for an audience member who is unafraid of death. The resulting love triangle embroils all involved in an intrigue of passion, murder, and power. Adapted from a short story by Steven Millhauser, winner of the 1997 Pulitzer Prize. "Riveting from start to finish. The Illusionist is true movie magic." (Maxim) More at theillusionist.com

2006, color, 1 hour 50 minutes, Czech Republic/USA