Beautifully acted and handsomely mounted, this gorgeous period piece is an intelligent and intriguing exploration of "the dark arts" -- less dependent on mere hocus-pocus than on the convincing journey of the soul undertaken by its hero.
83
Entertainment WeeklyLisa Schwarzbaum
Entertainment WeeklyLisa Schwarzbaum
The Illusionist looks rigorously styled and measured, and every one of Norton's postures feels chosen. Yet the interesting actor has chosen so thoughtfully that we're riveted.
80
The Hollywood Reporter
The Hollywood Reporter
Outstanding production values and mysterious subject matter give the film a surprisingly opulent feel for an independent Sundance entry.
80
TimeRichard Corliss
TimeRichard Corliss
By the end, the canniest viewers may not be fooled, but--and you can believe this--they may be mesmerized.
Edward Norton is at his best here, chalking up another boundary-stretching performance this year in the wake of the unfairly overlooked "Down in the Valley."
The results are reasonably clever and impeccably executed, but one of these days, Burger is going to have to pull more from his hat than just the rabbit.
40
Film Threat
Film Threat
While it might have made a good short, as a feature film The Illusionist comes across like a magician whose tricks are transparent.
40
L.A. WeeklyScott Foundas
L.A. WeeklyScott Foundas
The movie is leaden and self-serious, with an unusually hollow performance from Norton, who's not for a moment convincing as a man of raging passion. Far better is Paul Giamatti.