There are three steps to a good magic trick. The pledge sets things up, the turn creates conflict and the prestige brings everything back together. The latest film from director Christopher Nolan ("Batman Begins," "Memento") follows the magician's rules and gives audiences an adequate rush. But it sure takes its time.
"The Prestige" chronicles the rivalry between two great magicians in turn-of-the-century London. The partnership of Robert Angier (Hugh Jackman) and Alfred Borden (Christian Bale) under the guidance of the wise Cutter (Michael Caine) is torn asunder when a trick goes horribly wrong. The result: a bitter feud of jealousy, obsession and violence.
Though "The Prestige" is a Chris Nolan movie starring Christian Bale, Michael Caine and Hugh Jackman, it's not quite "Batman Meets Wolverine." Sure, Bale's character has some identity issues, and sure, Caine plays yet another mentor figure, but the film's premise keeps things fresh. Magic is something that has captured people's wonder for centuries, and it makes for a mostly gripping experience here too.
Rising stars Bale and Jackman show a lot of range with characters that have significant emotional dimension. And while Caine is affable as always, Scarlett Johannsen co-stars but is not particularly memorable.
But though the acting is solid overall, it's really the story and visuals that take over in "The Prestige."
The best thing the film has going for it is its insightful behind-the-scenes look into the world of performance magic. "The Prestige" explores the development of tricks and the risks magicians must take in their execution. It proves there's a lot more to a magic trick than a well-trained sleight of hand.
Though much of the movie takes a practical look at the magic trick, this is hardly a period piece. The movie claims that though magicians must work hard to create a convincing and astonishing trick, there are also sorcerers out in the world who really do use magic.
The film has some beautiful cinematography, though stylistically it's not much of a departure from previous Nolan films. The heavy fog in one setting is cool, but he did that in "Insomnia." The dark, gritty interiors are also neat, but lack the impact they had in "Batman Begins.
Though the pledge and turn are set up skillfully enough, "The Prestige" takes its time coming to a resolution. The rivalry between the two plays out like a long game of tag, advantage shifting back and forth, back and forth. Though it'd be difficult to point to any scene as wholly unnecessary, the 131-minute running time seems a bit much. Better editing could have done much to keep "The Prestige" from dragging.
Despite its shortcomings, "The Prestige" makes for a fascinating night out at the movies. It's not quite as strong as Chris Nolan's previous work, but anyone who's ever felt the wonder from a good magic trick should find the film a rewarding experience.
