In a magician’s performance there are three acts. The first act is known as the Pledge. The second act is known as the turn. The final act is known as the prestige. This is part of the catch phrase during the trailer of “The Prestige” starring Hugh Jackman and Christian Bale. By far one of most intense, exciting movies I have seen in quite some time. Keep in mind I love magic – Houdini, Melinda, Matt King, etc. This movie is old world magic, around the turn of the century, right before Houdini came onto the scene, so I absolutely loved this era in magic. This is when magic got established and began drawing crowds to the theater. This was quite the form of entertainment back in the day I’m sure. However, “The Prestige” will keep you interested and guessing until the very end. An absolutely incredible movie. While the magic is a center point in the movie, its not the main storyline. Its predominately about 2 competing magicians and how their lives intertwine. Christian Bale is one of my all time favorites and Christopher Nolan, the director, is an exceptionally good storyteller. The movie is told in a series of flash backs over many years and present day. I won’t reveal any more so that you can watch it, but I have to say I did go out and buy this one. It has been added to our growing DVD collection, and I give it 5 stars! Mainly for adults, due to the complexities, but ages 13 and over could watch it. You will want to watch it again.
We also watched “The Departed” and I have to say I was also impressed with this movie as far as corrupt cop movies go. This one was well done and Travis and I were both stunned with two particular scenes towards the end. Leo Dicaprio is still a great actor and has proven his ability time and again. He was fantastic in “Titanic”, but his acting is so good in “The Departed”, as well as “The Aviator”, “Gangs in New York”, and “Catch me if you can”. I’m waiting to see “Blood Diamond” which he is in and also looks really good. “The Departed” is a bit violent, so ages 17 and over. I give it 4 stars.