18 movies about magicians and illusionists: part 2

Magic, illusion, skill or fraud? Whatever it is, miracles bring fire to the eyes and speed up the heartbeat. Stories about an unusual profession are never boring, because the main characters’ goal is to amaze the audience. We offer you a selection of the best films about magicians and illusionists that can lead the viewer into an unexpected but magical world.

Red Lights (2012)

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This thriller justifies the attention of viewers who appreciate intricate plots and unexpected twists and turns. Margaret Madison devoted her life to exposing deceivers: esotericists, magicians, mediums, and illusionists. Tom Buckley collaborated with her and actively supported her in her difficult mission. The only person who was able to confuse the skeptics was a blind magician who claimed to have supernatural powers. Getting in the way of a rich and powerful illusionist means putting their lives on the line, but Margaret and Tom are willing to take the risk.

The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus (2009)

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The comedy-fantasy film tells the story of Dr. Parnassus and his unusual circus performance. Ancient Parnassus made a deal with the devil that made him immortal and gave him access to a magic mirror. This artifact allows everyone to plunge into the world of their fantasies. However, the price for such opportunities turns out to be extremely high, and soon Parnassus is threatened with the loss of his daughter, unless the situation is changed by the mysterious stranger Tony.

Is Anybody There? (2008)

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The dramatic story of a boy named Edward has been a staple of British magician cinema for over a decade. Edward’s life contradicts the image of an ordinary child. His home is a retirement home owned by his family. Always surrounded by the elderly and faced with death, the boy delves into the world of the afterlife. At some point, a new resident appears in the house – a former illusionist Clarence, who is struggling with depression. The interaction between the boy and the old man helps them both find inner harmony and true friendship.

The Great Buck Howard (2008)

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Troy decides to drop out of law school to follow his dream of becoming a writer. This decisive step shocks his family and friends. Nevertheless, the young man remains steadfast in his decision and sets out to find his true path. He finds a job with the touring illusionist Buck Howard and travels the country with him. Despite Howard’s lost popularity, he becomes a real hero to Troy, whom he admires in his new role as manager.

Death Defying Acts (2007)

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The British feature film about a magician is based on the story of the legendary Harry Houdini. The film reveals an excerpt from the illusionist’s life, focusing on the period when in 1926 he met Mary, a charming female medium. Houdini, who was in love with her, trusted her apparent magical abilities and agreed to a session of spiritualistic communication with his mother. However, Mary’s real profession is only deception, and the swindler has her own plans for fame.

The Prestige (2006)

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A charming and stylish movie with a high rating, where a real magician Ricky Jay acts as an actor and mentor to other artists. The action takes place at the end of the XIX century, when the task of surprising a rather sophisticated audience becomes difficult. Two rival illusionists go to war with each other, trying to entertain the audience and gain popularity. They are ready to resort to any means to achieve fame, including deception, risky stunts and even human sacrifice.

Scoop (2006)

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A comedy film in which a strange magician and an ambitious student named Sondra collide while conducting a fascinating investigation. Events unfold after the death of journalist Joe Strombel, who eventually finds a fascinating story – information about a killer in London. Joe can’t let this sensational news go to waste. Taking advantage of the possibility of communication through a medium from the other side, he contacts a journalism student named Sondra and puts her on the trail of the killer. Sondra, with the support of an experienced magician, begins an investigation.

The Illusionist (2006)

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The film is set in Vienna at the beginning of the 20th century. The main character of the fantasy thriller is a young magician Eduard Eisenheim. In his youth, Eduard meets a girl from a noble family and falls in love with Sophie. Together they dream of leaving their hometown. However, the Duke, Sophie’s father, does not want his daughter to be involved with the son of a simple cabinetmaker, and takes Sophie away. After 15 years, Eduard goes to Asia to study and returns as the famous illusionist and magician Eisenheim.

Magicians (2000)

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The plot of the comedy movie about magicians revolves around many fascinating characters. Hugo, a pickpocket, Max, an unsuccessful magician, Milo, a more experienced illusionist, and Lydia, a waitress, set off for Las Vegas with high hopes. Ahead of them, this motley group will face unsuccessful performances, public discontent, and even clashes with the police. Despite all the obstacles, the heroes do not hold back their ambitions, as they have already overcome half the way to a better life.

Read more:

• 18 movies about magicians and illusionists: part 1