Premium Content:

The Illusionist (M) Directed by Neil Burger

The IllusionistStories, conjuring tricks and romance all flirt with illusion and possibilities. According to writer/director Neil Burger, ‘The role of any magician is to remind us of the mystery of existence and inspire awe and wonder at that mystery. Seeking a great magical trick or illusion gives you a kind of chill and makes you think that perhaps there are powers greater than those of man, regardless of whether the magician possesses them or not.’

Set in Vienna at the end of the 19th century, The Illusionist features four inter-related characters that all possess their version of power. The story is told from the point of view of Police Inspector Uhl (Paul Giamatti), who is instructed by Crown Prince Leopold (Ruwfus Sewell) to convict the mysterious and reticent magician Eisenheim (Edward Norton) of fraud. Apparently there still lingers something of a romantic nature that began between a younger Eisenheim and Prince Leopold’s fiancee Sophie von Teschen (Jessica Biel) many years previously.

- Advertisement -

In the late 19th century the Lumiere brothers were responsible for creating all sorts of cinematic effects that challenged the laws of nature and of the universe. While modern audiences know all about how special effects can make an orange tree grow from a seed in seconds, the film is not about how the tricks are done. Infused with magic and romance, this very clever film lures its audience with the possibility that everything is an illusion.

Latest

Swan Pride Festival creates a unique space in the queer landscape

From drag shows to cultural presentations and a boy who just wants to dance, Swan Pride was a celebration of diversity.

On This Gay Day | Allen R Schindler was killed in Japan

His death sparked a major policy change about gay people serving in the military.

RTRFM wins the prestigious Tony Staley Award for Excellence

It's just one of several awards taken home by the popular Perth station.

The Proud Awards welcomes back former hosts to celebrate its first decade

Cougar Morrison is one of the many former hosts of the gala who'll be returning for the 10th edition.

Newsletter

Don't miss

Swan Pride Festival creates a unique space in the queer landscape

From drag shows to cultural presentations and a boy who just wants to dance, Swan Pride was a celebration of diversity.

On This Gay Day | Allen R Schindler was killed in Japan

His death sparked a major policy change about gay people serving in the military.

RTRFM wins the prestigious Tony Staley Award for Excellence

It's just one of several awards taken home by the popular Perth station.

The Proud Awards welcomes back former hosts to celebrate its first decade

Cougar Morrison is one of the many former hosts of the gala who'll be returning for the 10th edition.

On Intersex Awareness Day: check your knowledge is up to date

There a bunch of things you can do today to participate in Intersex Awareness Day.

Swan Pride Festival creates a unique space in the queer landscape

From drag shows to cultural presentations and a boy who just wants to dance, Swan Pride was a celebration of diversity.

On This Gay Day | Allen R Schindler was killed in Japan

His death sparked a major policy change about gay people serving in the military.

RTRFM wins the prestigious Tony Staley Award for Excellence

It's just one of several awards taken home by the popular Perth station.