A couple of years ago I caught a film that I had heard very little about, but knew immediately when it was over that it should be a contender for Best Picture in the Academy Awards. I was so blown away by "The Illusionist", that I immediately began telling everyone I knew that they should see it. Unfortunately it was already out of theatres and the DVD release was still a couple of weeks away so they had to wait. But I gotta tell you, it's well worth adding to your collection in any format. "The Illusionist" stars Edward Norton as Eisenheim, an acclaimed magician whose illusions catch the eye of (an insane) Crown Prince Leopold (Rufus Sewell). It seems that not only is Eisenheim able to make a fool of the Crown Prince, but furthers incenses his anger by re-capturing the attention of his fiancée (Jessica Biel), who Eisenheim was in love with when both were younger.

After tragedy befalls the illusionist, he completely changes his stage act to one of appearing to contact the dead. Leopold orders his Chief Inspector (Paul Giamatti) to investigate Eisenheim and find a way to destroy his reputation… and preferably even the man himself.

I might be a bit swayed by the fact that the film is centered within the realm of magic, and better still the style of magic audiences witnessed a hundred years ago, but in retrospect I do not think that is the case. "The Illusionist", adapted and directed by Neil Burger from the original short story, is beautifully crafted both in the slightly non-linear way it is told as well as its lush production design. The color palette serves to make the viewers feel as though they are watching a story from long ago and is aided in part by the gorgeously designed costumes.

But as is needed to elevate any story, no matter how well told, the acting here is above reproach. Edward Norton, who somehow always brings with him a fullness of character to the roles he portrays. Every look, every mannerism, seems as natural to him as those we make ourselves no matter how extreme his character may be. As Eisenheim, Norton appears as though he is full of secrets… as mysterious inside as his illusions are to see. He carries himself with this air, only opening up in the presence of the love of his life. Jessica Biel, whom I've really never considered to be much of an actress, delivers a perfect performance as a woman of means torn between her duty to her family and the man she truly loves.

But to say either of these actors is the star of the film would be a disservice to Paul Giamatti as Chief Inspector Uhl. Giamatti serves as the narrator to the tale and steals the entire film from his co-stars. He is a brilliant actor who is known more for the everyday schlubs he plays. This is the first time I've seen him portray a character of such strength. He too, is torn between his admiration for the Eisenheim's illusions and the insane man to whom he owes his position. This is by far one of Giamatti's finest performances and the fact that he did not get at least an Oscar nod for Best Supporting Actor, leaves me little doubt the Academy Awards are rigged.

The film was originally released on DVD back then, but is now FINALLY being offered up on Bluray. This awesome release for "The Illusionist" offers up a commentary by director Neil Burger, which I highly recommend if for no other reason than he explains how some of the magicians of the day were able to mystify their audiences. There are also two featurettes, both of which are fairly short but still worth looking at. These are the same extras on the DVD, and that is my only complaint. I really would have appreciated a more in-depth look at the making of the film. Still, having it on Bluray, which allows for a greater appreciation of the film’s amazing production value and sound mix, makes this double dip a worthwhile one.

Directed by: Neil Burger
Starring: Edward Norton, Paul Giamatti, Jessica Biel, Rufus Sewell
Extras: Commentary by Writer/Director Neil Burger, The Making of The Illusionist, Jessica Biel on The Illusionist
Specifications: Widescreen (1.85:1); 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio
Studio: 20th Century Fox
Release Date: 6/8/2010
MPAA Rating: PG-13

We'll give The Illusionist (Bluray) an A.