Review of The Illusionist (2009) by Himanshu M — 28 Feb 2011

This film has more charm than a basket full of puppies but many (understandably) may not see this story in a very positive light. The film gets its charm from its look and style and I loved this aspect of the film. Its drawn in a beautiful way that stands it well apart from the modern day offerings of Pixar and Disney. The film also has very little dialogue and will not be everyones cup of tea.

The story is about a magician during a time when peoples tastes are changing and the demand for magic acts is on the wane. The illusionist is forced to seek work in the UK to earn a living. He meets a hillarious drunken Scotsman during a function who offers him work. This then takes him to a remote Scottish island where it has only recently been introduced to electricity. He meets a young lady who follows him to the mainland and their relationship blossoms and changes.

I have a friend who dislikes films with a negative message so if you are like her you may not be a fan of this as ive heard it been described as depressing. I however, thought it had many positive messages regarding human behaviour and I would say watch it and make your own mind up.