The Illustionist (2006) 3 stars out of 4. Starring Edward Norton, Jessica Biel, Paul Giamatti and Rufus Sewell. Based on the short story by Steven Millhauser. Written and directed by Neil Burger. Rated PG-13.
Running time: Approx: 110 mins.

        A magician痴 appeal rests not upon his tricks, but his bond with the audience.

        Those watching know they are being misled, that all they see is an illusion. But it is how the magician presents that sleight-of-hand that holds the crowd spellbound.

        Thus it is with writer-director Neil Burger痴 The Illusionist. Adapted from a short story by Pulitzer Prize-winning author Steven Millhauser, this period drama weaves a series of circumstances that make you question the validity of what you are seeing.

        Set in turn-of-the-century Vienna, the movie is equal parts supernatural mystery, political thriller and love story.

        The main protagonist is Eisenheim (Edward Norton), the illusionist who is drawing huge audiences with his amazing feats. Also involved are Uhl (Paul Giamatti), a pragmatic police inspector, Crown Prince Leopold (Rufus Sewell) and the enigmatic Countess Sophie Von Teschen (Jessica Biel).

        When Leopold, accompanied by his coterie, including his betrothed, Sophie, attend one of Eisenheim痴 performance, Sophie volunteers to assist the illusionists for one of his tricks.

        Unknown to all, Eisenheim and Sophie were childhood sweethearts, but were separated because of class differences.

        Now, they court danger by rekindling their romance, while, at the same time, an embarrassed Leopold orders Uhl to discover the secret of Eisenheim痴 illusions.

        Most of the movie is told in flashback, narrated by Uhl as he is reporting his findings to the prince. Thus the first sections of the film are a bit slow, but as the story builds, the pace quickens.

        The performances are a tad uneven. Norton is too subdued as Eisenheim. While forsaking the cliched flamboyance usually associated with magicians, he appears a bit too withdrawn and cold. He almost lacks any personality at all.

        Biel looks lovely and brings a spirit of defiance to her countess, who rebels against the restrictions of her class.

        Sewell goes a little over-the-top, almost tripping into parody as the craven prince.

        Giamatti is the movie痴 rock. He creates a complex character in Uhl, one who walks a tightrope between trying to serve his own interests and those of his sponsor, Leopold, while also fighting to hold onto some integrity and sense of justice.

        The Illusionist, like any good magic act, finishes with a satisfying flourish. Even though some keen observers may figure it out, the ending will still leave them appreciative of this cinematic feat of legerdemain.

       Bob Bloom is the film critic and DVD reviewer at the Journal & Courier in Lafayette, Ind. He can be reached by e-mail at bbloom@journalandcourier.com or at serialhero48@yahoo.com. Bloom's reviews also can be found at the Journal & Courier Web site: www.jconline.com
Other reviews by Bloom can be found at the Rottentomatoes Web site: www.rottentomatoes.com.