The Prestige (2006)

Good Film, And Better The Second Time

I've seen this film twice now - about a year ago and then a few weeks ago on Blu-Ray (which looks super) - and thoroughly enjoyed it both times, even the second time when I remembered some of those fantastic twists in the last half hour. Sometimes it's even more fun to view a film like this when you know a few things, because earlier scenes take on new meaning.

It's not an easy film to totally digest, even with two viewings, because that ending has some mind-boggling revelations. Without having to resort to spoilers, let me just say the story is extremely interesting, the acting very good, the period pieces fun to view and it's a pretty clean movie so grandma can also enjoy it, too, without language or sex concerns.

Basically, it's a story about obsession between two magicians in the last decade of the 19th century. They continually try to top one another and things get nasty along the way. Hugh Jackman and Christian Bale are both fun to watch in those roles, as are Michael Caine and Scarlett Johansson in supporting roles.

This is one movie guaranteed to have you thinking about it when it's over! November 13, 2008

Listen To Michael Caine...

At the beginning of THE PRESTIGE, Michael Caine asks us an important question, then tells us the three main stages of a magic trick. This is very important, as the rest of the movie is set up in these stages, while retaining an atmosphere of suspense and mystery. The symbolism of the canaries is crucial, in that they represent the living "pledge". Where do they go when they disappear? What happens to them? How does this pre-figure the quest of Angier (Hugh Jackman) and Borden (Christian Bale) to perfect the ultimate illusion? What is it's price? What are the similarities between the canary trick and the Transported Man? Where is the "turn"? What is the "prestige" (payoff)? What does Tesla really offer these men? I find this movie fascinating. It raises so many interesting questions! Like a good puzzle, it keeps me working at it, even when it confounds me! Check it out... November 8, 2008

Nolan's Genius

Once again, Christopher Nolan sets the perfect mood for the "The Prestige" as he did in "Memento" and "Insomnia." David Julyan's ever present musical score is also a perfect fit in this compelling drama. October 24, 2008

Do not miss this film

The Prestige is one of the best movies I've ever seen. I couldn't stop thinking about the end of this film for days, it deeply toched me. The acting, story, setting and plot were flawlessly done. You do have to watch it a second time to really pick up on everything...so much happens in the dialogue, unless you are really paying attention the first time through, you miss some of the key moments.

Anyone comparing this film to "the illusionist" is really missing the boat. Other the fact the two movies have magicians in them, that's about it. The illusionist is a bit of a joke compared to this film. October 18, 2008

The Prestige: Creepy, Colorful, and Very, Very, Entertaining

One of our favorite movies in my home is "The Prestige". It is an incredible work of art. The movie stars Christian Bale, of "The Dark Knight" fame, Hugh Jackman, Michael Caine, Scarlett Johansson, and yes, David Bowie. I watched the movie, expecting to (ho-hum), watch and do other things, but soon became lost in the story.

Christopher Nolan did a wonderful job of creating a spooky, dark, ambiance for the story. It quickly draws you in, and keeps you hooked for the entire show.

David Bowie is a standout, of course, as Nickola Tesla- the inventor of the "Tesla Coil", or "Caged Lightening." He lends himself to the role, but is entirely believeable. We are fortunate enough to have a "Tesla Coil" in a local museum. It is amazing! Those of you who haven't seen one, it would really be worth you while to do so. Then you could watch "The Prestige", do research on Nickola Tesla, and watch "The Prestige" again.....Or at least- that's what I plan to do!

September 30, 2008

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