Neil Burger’s The Illusionist is still a wonderful watch, and totally committed to its theme.
The Illusionistisnt always sure what kind of movie it wants to be.
Sometimes, it is a love story.
Other times, it is a mystery.
Still other time it is a political drama.
And, of course, the theme is right there in the title: the power of illusion.
Because thats not what its about.
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In this way, Uhl becomes the audience surrogate.
He is the man who is obsessed with the illusion.
He is us, caught up in the wonder of seeing something we know is not there.
It is in the flickering frames ofThe Illusionistsflashbacks and its shots of a early camera creating an illusion.
Leopold is punished not for his actions, but for his lack of belief.
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Heres the thing, though.
Thats not what they show us.
We only hear that Leopold has a history of abusing women.
The rumor that he killed one of his previous lovers is hearsay within the context of the film.
Lets take a look at his final monologue:
Everyones completely incompetent.
My father runs the Empire into the groundno one notices, no one knows anything.
I propose to clean up the mess and you thank me by betraying me.
… Theres a thousand different voices screaming to be heard and nothing will be done!
Ive done everything I can.
Because this is the power of cinema, dammit, and you better bow down to it.
Leopold tells his court (and the audience): He tries to trick you.
I venture to enlighten you.
Which is the more noble pursuit?
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