The Prestige

The ‘prestige’ is the part of the magic trick that it makes it magic, the part that you crave to discover. It also means high status and respect, resulting from success and achievements. The former is what they do; the latter is what they long for.

Out of the same shadows as Memento, Insomnia and Batman Begins emerges The Prestige, the latest effort from widely-acclaimed director Christopher Nolan. In this twisting, turning tale of mystery, two Victorian-era magicians spark a powerful rivalry that builds into an escalating battle of tricks and an unquenchable thirst to uncover the other’s trade secrets. As these two remarkable men pit daring against desire, showmanship against science and ambition against friendship, the results are dangerous, deadly and deceptive.

Christian Bale is becoming a firm favourite of Nolan’s, having appeared, alongside Sir Michael Caine, in Batman Begins, it’s sequel The Dark Knight and now The Prestige, and he certainly shows why here as the rough-edged purist magician, Alfred Borden, who lacks the panache to showcase his magical ideas. He puts in a gratifying display and his South London accent is extremely authentic. Likewise, Hugh Jackman gives a solid performance as the flashy and sophisticated Robert Angier, the consummate performer of the two. Sir Michael Caine is excels in his role as mentor and looks very comfortable settling into strong supporting roles at this stage of his career. He is a true legend in the industry. Scarlett Johansson is distinctly unremarkable as a love interest, whilst Andy Serkis shows his welcome face for once and David Bowie buts in a good, and very rare, cameo (although his accent is very questionable).

As with many of Nolan’s movies, the filmmaking is very slick and smooth. Despite quite a complex story, the film was extraordinarily easy on the eye, inter-cutting flashbacks with flash-forwards to help the flow.

The mise-en-scene is well crafted and extremely creative, with a varying choice of magical props to aid the two illusionist’s games of one-upmanship. The Victorian setting is just right for the film displaying an era in which magicians were the main celebrities in the world. The film was, at times, quite dark which was complimented by a great tension-building score, often adding elements of horror into the mix.

Nolan has continued his string of successes with yet another triumph, using his own trickery to show just the precise amount at the right time in order to keep the audience guessing.

The Prestige is an enigmatic web of magic, obsession and a desire to be the best, no matter what it takes. Be under no illusions, Nolan has conjured up a very hypnotic picture…just make sure you’re watching.

Last edited: 28th May 2008