This film may not make cinema history, win an academy award or be lauded by the critics. But compared to the majority of films out there right now it stands out as good solid entertainment. It doesn't try to make a political point or manipulate the audience into being for or against Bush, global warming, animal rights, the plight of the three toed salamander etc. etc. etc. It does what Hollywood movies are best at by taking you away from all the tiresome simplifications of complex worldly issues and letting you enjoy yourself for an hour and fifty minutes. It is a story of lovers and their struggle to be together and to be in love - a story that has been told a million times (at least) and never wears out. The acting is capable, the lovers have good chemistry, the villain is sufficiently believable and evil, the hero is clever and the plot is excellent. This is storytelling at its best. So forget about the war, the economy, or if you are politically correct enough to survive in this crazy world and enjoy yourself. Go to the movies - or at least this movie. Walk out feeling good. It's therapeutic.
Review of The Illusionist
