The Illusionist casts an exquisitely bewitching spell with its dreamy atmosphere and pervasive sense of suspense.

Writer/director Neil Burger has fashioned a beautifully shot mystery, with precise and elegant attention to period detail, which heightens the sense of intrigue in this romantic thriller.

The Illusionist Credit: Yari Film Group

Set in Vienna circa 1900, the well-crafted tale is bolstered by the powerful performance of Edward Norton as a master magician named Eisenheim. Just as strong in their respective portrayals are Paul Giamatti as an ambitious but conflicted police inspector and Rufus Sewell as the villainous Prince Leopold.

At the insistence of the prince, Giamatti's policeman closes down Eisenheim's popular magic show, which is steeped with almost supernatural enchantments. The prince is engaged to marry the aristocratic Sophie (Jessica Biel), and when he sees her fascination with the seemingly inscrutable Eisenheim, he is increasingly motivated to end the illusionist's career.

Edward Norton Credit: Yari Film Group

As it turns out, Eisenheim and Sophie were childhood friends whose close relationship was interrupted in their early teens by her high-born parents. Since then, Eisenheim devoted his energies to perfecting his magic skills. When he meets Sophie as an adult, he is sophisticated, handsome and the toast of the town. He uses his magic prowess to win her back.