Classics: A Review of The Illusionist By Lauren Ennis

 How far would you go for love? Would you defy the unspoken rules of society? Would you break the law? Would you challenge the laws of physics and the rules of life and death? These are the questions that magician Eisenheim wrestles with in The Illusionist. This 2006 drama blends history, romance, suspense, and a little magic to relate a twisting tale that is nothing short of spellbinding.

The story begins in turn of the 20th century Vienna. Internationally acclaimed magician Eisenheim has returned home to see-out performances. In the midst of his most popular trick, however, he is arrested for fraud. His arresting officer then reports to Crown Prince Rudolph and relates all that he has learned about the mysterious magician's life and work. The story then flashes back to Eisenheim's childhood, when he was still a peasant known ad Eduard Abramovich. As a child he becomes fascinated by magic tricks which he uses to impress his crush, aristocrat Sophie von Teschen. The pair's childhood infatuation develops into a teen romance, but the two are separated after being discovered by Sophie's disapproving family. After her family moves to Vienna he sets off on his won, determined to become a successful magician. Fifteen years later he returns from a world tour. After a chance meeting with Sophie he learns that she is engaged to marry the Crown Prince Rudolph in an arranged marriage. The pair eventually rekindle their romance and Eduard learns that the price is abusive towards Sophie and is forcing her to help him in a plot to overthrow his father, the emperor. When she is found murdered it's up to Eduard to summon all of his magic to clear an innocent man's name, thwart a coup, and just maybe reunite with his beloved.

Through its combination of political intrigue, mystery, and romance The Illusionist is nothing short of magic. The film's central love story expertly balances between the personal and the political as it takes viewers on a twisting thrill ride through the streets of Vienna. While the plot remains grounded in its historical reality and even echoes real life events it hints at the supernatural in a way that will leave viewers begging to know the magician's secrets. The final reveal deserves a place amongst the most inventive and memorable twists in modern cinema. The film offers more than thrill, however, with its beating heart lying not in Eisenheim's bag of tricks but in his relationship with Sophie. The way in which the script shows the pair's relationship develop from youthful infatuation into selfless love is achingly romantic. As a result, viewers will be rooting for the star-crossed couple's success every step of the way. The cinematography and costume designs bring turn of the century Vienna to vibrant life. Even nearly two decades after the film's release its special effects are never less than stunning and are sure to leave viewers every bit as spellbound as Eisenheim's audience. For viewing that will leave your pulse pounding and heart racing fall under the spell of The Illusionist.

The film transports viewers to the splendor of the turn of the century Vienna thanks to the work of its stellar cast. Aaron Johnson and Eleanor Tomlinson turn in surprisingly mature performances as young Eduard and Sophie. Paul Giamatti aptly conveys the conflict between ambition and honor as the dogged Inspector Uhl. Rufus Sewell is tyranny personified as the brutal Crown prince Leopold. Jessica Biel infuses Sophie with warmth, intelligence, and quiet strength. Edward Norton proves himself as a leading man as the story's titular illusionist. He aptly blends mystique, longing, wit, and charisma in a performance that is nothing short of magic. Together, Norton and Biel share a chemistry that is sure to cast a spell over viewers.

At once a classic historical romance and a modern thriller, The Illusionist captures the magic of the movies. The script expertly merges mystery, history, and romance to tell a tale that will leave viewers guessing until its final reveal. The brilliant work of the cast immerses viewers in the world of turn of the century Vienna. Nearly twenty years after its release the film still holds plenty of tricks up its sleeve. Believe in magic with Sophie and Eisenhim in The Illusionist.

Classics: A Review of Paprika By Lauren Ennis

 Over the course of just one decade and four films Satoshi Kon established himself as one of the most formidable and innovative directors in animation. If one film captures the psychological thrill, visual splendor, and thought provoking storytelling that defined Kon's work is his 2007 drama Paprika. Part surrealist journey into the human psyche and part pulse pounding detective drama the film has gained iconic status in the decades since its release. For a movie that is truly unlike any other chase your dreams with Paprika.

The story begins with hardened cop detective Konakawa searching for a traitor in the audience of a circus. What seems to begin as a standard police procedural soon takes a surreal turn, however, when it is revealed that the circus search is really just part of his recurring nightmare. The film then introduces viewers to the therapist attempting to treat his night terrors, the enigmatic Paprika. This simple premise is then flipped on its head when viewers learn that Paprika is actually the alter-ego of psychiatric researcher Dr. Chiba, who works for a team developing new neurological treatments. Her team is currently testing their latest invention, the DC Mini, which allows therapists to enter patients' dreams in an effort to better understand a patient's trauma and illness. When the DC mini is stolen the team is launched onto a chase in which the lines between dreams and reality blur and the fate of humanity is on the line.

The film explores the power of dreams both the nocturnal and aspirational kind to create a mind-bending thriller the likes of which animation was made for. The film's depiction of dreams as representative of the subconscious takes viewers on a fascination journey  into the human psyche. This portrayal highlights the ways in which all of us are impacted by subconscious desires and fears of which we may not even be aware. In this way, the film asks viewers to confront the deep-seated hopes and anxieties that we all keep hidden, even from ourselves. The film's depiction of aspirational dreams is equally compelling as it showcases the ways all of us are driven by our dreams for the future. The film is particularly notable for its poignant depiction of the lasting impact of our dreams even long after we have abandoned them. Even as it acknowledges the devastating impact of ignoring and forsaking our dreams the film never veers into despair and instead uses the struggles of its characters to remind us that its never too late to pursue our dreams. While the film explores cerebral subjects the story maintains the same upbeat outlook and unabashed playfulness as its titular heroine. As a result, the film offers an inspiring message of hope that viewers from all walks of life can relate to. Discover of the genius of Satoshi Kon with Paprika.

Over the course of its ninety minute run time the film serves up an unforgettable feast for the eyes and ears. The film showcases Kon's signature style to dazzling effect as it captures the enigmatic power of dreams. The film's array of images, colors, and symbols brings the world of our dreams in al of their beautiful, terrifying, and inspiring mystery to life all while following the disjointed logic of a dream. As a result, the film leaves viewers feeling as though they are traveling in a dream along with the characters while recalling viewers' own dreams. The animation's ethereal atmosphere is amplified by the music of Kon's frequent collaborator, Susumu Hirasawa. Hirasawa's score blends the infectious charm of pop with the futuristic sounds of synth techno to expert effect. The soundtrack aptly reinforces the film's themes while infusing the proceedings with an exhilarating sense of adventure. Together, the score and animation create an enchanting world the likes of which viewers have only seen once upon a dream.

Paprika is the final film in Satoshi Kon's directorial career; and what a way to complete a career. The film perfectly encapsulates Kon's unique animation style, innovative editing techniques, and groundbreaking approach to storytelling. Nearly twenty years after its release the film's influence can still be seen in Japanese animation and even live-action Hollywood. Discover the magic of the movies when you dream a little dream with Paprika.