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8.7 out of 10

Universal acclaim- based on 269 Ratings

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  1. Negative: 5 out of 269

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  1. Jan 12, 2011
    10
    what a movie! omg! no doubt, Chris Nolan is one of the best in the game! the cast, the plot, the twists..wonderful! genius..i'm speechless right now,i..i..i was blown away...vuf..100 out of 10! 100!!!!!
  2. RayH
    Nov 27, 2006
    5
    This movie was all around a pretty good movie. It was extremely dark, and some of the scenes were a bit disturbing. The plot kind of rambled on to make this movie way too long. An hour and a half would have been alot better. The twists in this movie are confusing and it makes you think too hard.The movie did have some cool things in it and has a very surprising ending. It was not the best movies I've ever seen, but it was good enough to keep me from leaving the theater for as long as it did. So it must have done something right. Expand
    • 1 of 3 users said yes
  3. Jan 21, 2011
    9
    Great acting by Bale, Jackman, and Johansson even though it lacked the support from the other actors to give it a good acting grade. However, Nolan decides to put yet another new idea on the board just to simply add to his already prestigious resume.
  4. BR
    Oct 20, 2006
    10
    It's funny, as it seems almost all the critics take pride in themselves for pointing out that the film may be too complicated for its own good. Well I say it's about time, here we are complaining about other movies all year for not having a lick of intelligence and then Nolan's 'The Prestige' comes out to answer the calls and now it's too much? This, ladies and gentlemen, is the film we have all be waiting for! BRAVO Mr. Nolan, your dark and beautiful tale of two obsessed magicians falls into my book as one of the best films this year. Sure to be remembered years from now. Cheers. Expand
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  5. theiboygenius
    Oct 27, 2006
    10
    To some of those who do not like The Prestige probably because they couldn’t understand the whole damn story..... I guess.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  6. JasonH.
    Oct 30, 2006
    9
    The Prestige is a wonderful, mind-bending movie full of twists and turns and human faults and obessions. I love Nolan movies because they are always so twisting and turning and leave the audience never fully knowing what is going on when and where. I love the suspense of being challenged by a movie to figure out how the past and present scenes tangle together and fit just right. If you want an intellectually challenging movie, then The Prestige is for YOU! Expand
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  7. Conor
    Jan 10, 2007
    9
    As absorbing as it is abstruse, and all the better for it. In a cinema-world dominated by linear narratives, gross-out humour and feel-good animation, this is an intricate masterpiece of subtlety and surreality. The kind of movie that is experienced rather than watched, that maintains a commanding hold over the viewer rather than passively baring all in simplistic fashion. Couple this with an all-star cast that would have turned the worst script into good theatre, and we have one of the best movies of 2006. Expand
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  8. BillyM.
    May 20, 2008
    10
    These critics are full of it! This movie has one of the best endings I have ever seen. I recently took a 12 hour flight in which "The Prestige" was showing and didn't even want to get off the plane when we landed just so I could see the ending!
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  9. WillHack
    Jul 2, 2008
    9
    Keeps you guessing the whole way.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  10. PaulM.
    Nov 10, 2006
    3
    A cold film full of tricks not real characters. The twists (especially the main one) visible a mile off. A trite ending concluded a disappointing piece.
    • 0 of 1 users said yes
  11. AdrianH.
    Oct 21, 2006
    6
    The movie has all the tools for a great movie and starts off by creating a fantastic and twisted story of rivalry and the lengths two men go to one-up each other. I was engrossed in the movie, sorting through all the deception and double crossing and trying to sort out what was going to happen. But it's like halfway through the movie, the writers tried to get too clever for their own good and write in improbable and implausible twist after twist... culminating in the 'secret' to the final trick being so horribly out of place in the film I literally sat there shaking my head at the screen. Rather than create clever twist for a trick that is even performed by magicians everywhere today, they resorted to using some crazy science fiction elements. It's like they spent all the time setting it up only to cop out for the final revelation. By the time the movie wraps up all the loose ends and tells you how everything was done, you may just not care anymore. Expand
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  12. JoeM.
    Oct 21, 2006
    10
    Don't believe the San Francisco Chronicle review. They are always OFF !!! I think they don't want you to see all the great movies. This movie was great from beginning to end.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  13. RobbieM.
    Oct 20, 2006
    10
    I thought it was amazing, my heart was pounding throughout.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  14. Wongit
    Oct 22, 2006
    8
    Astonishing, very interesting has you hooked throught most of the movie, for me at least. Bale is a great actor as is Jackman and Johanson is as beautiful as ever. Great movie.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  15. Ryan
    Oct 23, 2006
    8
    Great movie, keeps your brain thinking and working!
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  16. JoshS.
    Oct 23, 2006
    10
    An excellent and engaging film. Brilliant acting all around and wonderful direction by Nolan. It's also one of the darkest movies I've seen in a long time.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  17. RonG
    Oct 26, 2006
    10
    Loved it, loved it, loved it! Nolan does it again and Bale and Jackman were amazing.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  18. BradG
    Oct 28, 2006
    10
    It was the best movie I've seen this year. I love good films, and this movie proves once again that many critics will bash a beautiful, thrilling film simply becasue it wasn't made on a shoestring budget by an obscure director. I'd love to back up that claim, but any in-depth discussion would ruin this film's flawless mechanics and twists. Go see it, it's one of the few movies worth the 10 dollars we have to fork out for a flick these days. Expand
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  19. George
    Oct 30, 2006
    9
    Excellent movie. Great story and acting, it feels a little long at points, but doesn't take away from the enjoyment.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  20. MattA.
    Jan 13, 2007
    6
    Nice try Conor, you're not fooling anyone. We all know you worked on that review for several hours. Also, your analysis is just stupid. This movie had one of the most ridiculous endings in recent film memory, and it was just too muddled and overlong. Some nice performances though, especially by Bale and Rebecca Hall.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  21. JaredB.
    Jan 5, 2007
    10
    Going into the theater for this movie, I was afraid I was going to be bored to death. However, just the opposite was true. My eyes became glued to the screen from the first minute and I never looked away. The pairing of Christian Bale and Hugh Jackman was a stroke of genius. Speaking as a typical male, I really enjoyed Piper Perabo's scenes. Altogether, an incredible film.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  22. JustinV.
    Feb 10, 2007
    10
    This movie contains everything that could make it an instant classic. The Actors/actresses were chosen perfectly for their roles.. The movie itself feels like magic after watching it.. With every turn a new piece of the puzzle is thrown together.. All for the giant picture in the end which will baffle even the smartest of people. This movie takes its place as #1 on my list, and i bet anyone that enjoys a little mystery and magic will agree.. 10/10. Expand
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  23. DanB.
    Mar 2, 2007
    9
    Really good entertainment. Really surprising at the end, too! Though not the very very end--the very last thing they show, which is supposed to be a surprise, confused me, because I figured it out about 5 to 15 minutes beforehand, and I imagine many if not most people will have made the connection. Still, that's really just one off-note. (Oh, one other thing: David Bowie kicks arse. What fantastic casting.) Expand
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  24. ND
    Apr 1, 2007
    7
    Worth seeing but a bit too long for my liking - started to guess what twists were coming as well.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  25. Rich
    Apr 3, 2007
    10
    Went to see this film with my twin brother who's an alcoholic. We both LOVED it! Great storyline and performance by each and every actor. Intelligent screenplay that'll keep you glued to the screen.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  26. BillA
    Apr 19, 2008
    10
    This film is absolutely stunning and jaw dropping. Without no doubt Nolan truly does show his expertise in producing such a magnificent piece of work. Utterly, utterly amazing.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  27. JaimeLavie
    Apr 26, 2008
    9
    I usually don't vote, nor comment on movies. This time though, I have to : what is this about "science-fiction" ruining the movie or "hollow ending" ? Some critics obviously need to see the movie twice, maybe then they will understand why it is called "the prestige". The whole movie is a delightful, most enjoyable magical trick. But as Cutter explains in the movie : "people don't see the truth because they don't want to". Congratulations ! Expand
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  28. RishiI
    Jul 10, 2008
    9
    Was told by a friend to watch this movie, because he kept banging on about the plot twist. Well, it seems he was right. It is very good, the script is beautifully written and Bale is magnificent throughout.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  29. John
    Jul 9, 2008
    9
    Very cool movie! The twists were amazing and had me remembering the film long after I'd seen it. There is great acting happening here. The world and characters are believable. All in all another great film by Nolan.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  30. AstridI.
    Nov 13, 2006
    9
    I did not regret watching this film at all. It was wondrous and intellectually stimulating: it succeeded in creating a thrilling, philosophical weave exploring human nature, science and what else but magic. Such films are rare. Some parts of it did not have to be realistic for one to enjoy - the nature of a good story sometimes involves a bit of fable, genuine warmth and true depth at its very core. The Prestige simply delivers. Do not let the easy guesswork at the ending, or the length of the film, faze you. Highly recommended. Expand
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  31. EdA.
    Nov 14, 2006
    9
    This film is one of my favourite of the year. Really drew me in and rewarded my attention. Great acting all round in my opinion and is certainly unique.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  32. Lisa
    Nov 4, 2006
    10
    Outstanding screenplay, pacing, acting, set decoration, costumes. One of the most engaging movies I've been to in a LONG time - you do have to pay attention, so if you're looking for brain candy, this ain't it. Glorious twists and a drop-dead performance by David Bowie as the eccentric Tesla. Not to be missed for fans of Memento, Sixth Sense, and other movies that twist so hard at the end you fall out of your chair with WOW. Expand
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  33. ArnoldD.
    Nov 5, 2006
    4
    No quest for prestige but an obsessional orientation born of an ultimate quest for power. The dynamic clear in that the intent , the quest for power, is born of the denial of death. The quest is clear, the movie , boring .
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  34. BrianB.
    Nov 5, 2006
    9
    Magic! This movie was pure magic that will trick you! I was still guessing when I walked out of the theatre. I "think" I may have figured it out.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  35. LucyA.
    Dec 10, 2006
    9
    An excellent thriller (one of the best I've seen in years) and one of my favorite films of the year... The performances (especially Christian Bale's) are great and the screenplay is just brilliant. A must-see... definitely!
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  36. DrewF.
    Oct 21, 2006
    9
    Fantastic cast. Tremendous story. Great expose on the complexities of obsession. This shoots to the top of my list for best movies of the year.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  37. AllistairP.
    Oct 20, 2006
    6
    The type of movie you don't regret going to, yet don't exactly even remember a month later. A disappointment coming off "Batman Begins", in my eyes.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  38. TylerW.
    Oct 21, 2006
    10
    I thought this movie very well done. so much it still blows my mind everytime i think about it. I'm a huge movie goer and even started to write reviews, but Prestige is the best movie that i have seen in a long time!!!
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  39. EnderW.
    Oct 20, 2006
    10
    The best movie I have seen in a very long time. It will make you think... and continue to think long after you leave the theater. The movie itself follows the formula outlined in the trailer... It makes a pledge and shows you what should be "normal", it has a turn... or maybe a handful of turns as it leads you down its path... and finally we come to the prestige. You may begin to feel disappointment if you believe you figured out part of the trick before it's done, and when a certain element or elements are revealed you may hear that inner "I knew it!" but do me a favor an delve beneath the surface. This story is more about motivations and points of view than mere mechanics. And what you knew or thought you knew maybe viewed quite differently a few hours after seeing this excellent film. Expand
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  40. KevG.
    Oct 21, 2006
    10
    Thus far the year's best film (The Departed hasnt arrived in my country yet so I dont know). Great acting, great plot, great twists, although I saw the major twists a few moments before they were revealed, it was still an awesome film.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  41. MarcD.
    Oct 22, 2006
    8
    Christian Bale is brilliant.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  42. ArenB.
    Dec 20, 2006
    9
    This film is truly a magic trick in itself. It dazzles, confuses and entertains the audience all at the same time. With great directing from Christopher Nolan and amazing acting from the entire cast, this film transcends what it should have been and is something much better. Bravo Nolan.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  43. M.M.
    Oct 22, 2006
    5
    I felt it was a 'nice' movie. Shot and acted well but nothing in the plot or story to really get excited about or have any 'wow' moments. Average. I enjoyed 'The Illusionist' a lot more. Eh.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  44. RT
    Oct 22, 2006
    8
    Darkly intriguing. I believe once you discover the twists and turns, you may wish to see it a 2nd time to catch all of the hints throughout the movie. Wonderful acting with moody and melencholy scenary and tones throughout - and all within the context of a period piece. I highly recommend the movie.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  45. AaronS
    Oct 23, 2006
    8
    Immensely entertaining, a smart, complex and surprisingly dark thriller. Bale and Jackman are terrific and David Bowie is sensational in a surprising cameo. The ending is a bit of a cheat, but the first 2/3 of the film are so wonderful I could overlook it. A fun film that misses being great by that much.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  46. EnriqueG
    Oct 23, 2006
    10
    Just perfect. Almost a masterpiece.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  47. mb
    Dec 30, 2006
    3
    Ultimately bleak and depressing.
    • 0 of 1 users said yes
  48. AiJ
    Oct 24, 2006
    4
    Let me start off by saying that Chris Nolan is a very skilled director who handles cinematic structure better than most directors around today. I am a great admirer of Memento and Batman Begins and Christian Bale and Hugh Jackman give good performances in this picture. Now if anyone at the beginning of a movie says, "Are you watching closely" as they pan the camera across hundreds of top hats on the ground in the woods, then You Watch Closely! Once I saw the hats again, I had figured out that [***SPOILERS***] Danton was duplicating himself and that Borden did not kill him, but killed his reasonable facsimile. Also, when we see Fallon, Borden's engineer and right hand man, we know that he's obviously, Christian Bale in make up, false hair and glasses. This is the problem with Hollywood filmmaking: audiences are so used to seeing characters in medium shots and close-ups that we start to wonder why a character isn't shot that way and it sends up a red flag. Also, I had to wonder why Fallon was the exact same height as Borden when Michael Caine's character says that Borden is using a double to perform the transporting man illusion. Now, at this point, the conclusion-- or the "prestige" of the transporting man trick and the film itself-- seems rather obvious. I'm not the most intelligent man but I've seen a few films and when the solution to a mystery is so obvious, we all have to wonder, "How it is really going to end?" Or we think, "That ending is so simple, it can't be the true, so I'll go along for the ride". The Prestige manages to reveal the ending halfway through the movie and has no "twist" to make anyone feel that the last hour and 30 minutes was worth sitting through! This movie was "Secret Window" all over again except with better direction. And why didn't they cast Piper Perabo in Scarlett Johansson's role? When are we going to get a non-wooden performance from Scarlett? Is it because she is the cause for so much wood from the men in the audience? Sure she's great to look at but come on! Someone should punch her in the face already. Expand
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  49. BillyS
    Oct 24, 2006
    9
    A knock-your-socks-off great movie! Every frame of this film oozes quality. Can't wait to see it again to pick up all the clues I should have seen coming but was too mesmerized to know they were clues! An outstanding story, great acting from the entire cast and a brilliant return for David Bowie. The Prestige is a top 10 film but don't wear socks when you go see it!!
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  50. TyeN.
    Oct 24, 2006
    10
    Wickedly dark, clever, well paced, directed, written, and acted. What more could you ask for? Seriously, the best film of 2006 since V For Vendetta. Christian Bale is Oscar worthy, and so is Hugh Jackman and Michael Caine. Amazing film...please witness it for yourself.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  51. KishaG.
    Oct 25, 2006
    9
    The way Nolan structures this film is the real magic. Multiple viewings are mandatory to see things you missed the first time and for affirmations of what you think are the facts. Delve deeper in some scenes and all is not what is seems .Some of the critics reviews complain that there is rooting interest for the audience you really don't care for either character. I totally disagree with that I found myself rooting for and against Angier (Jackman) and Borden (Bale ) at various times throughout . This movie is one of my favorites of the year. Expand
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  52. HalB
    Oct 25, 2006
    6
    A fundamentally flawed movie that gives away the ending -- if you're paying attention -- a good 25 minutes before the climax. Hence, an anti-climactic ending of that kind of spoiled the movie for me. Performances are all solid, but the main characters are difficult to root for given their unmitigated ambition/deceit. Scarlett Johansson is sexy and beguiling, but in a somewhat wasted role. David Bowie as Tesla is interesting. Andy Serkis (aka Golum) delivers a nice little performance. Expand
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  53. BillyB.
    Dec 6, 2006
    8
    This movie twists and turns and even though I found it rather long, I found the ride and the ending of it very satisfying.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  54. EricR
    Oct 26, 2006
    10
    Good evening readers, it is not every day I feel so inclined to sit down and type out a movie review, but after seeing The Prestige today I simply cannot resist the temptation to share with everyone how great of a movie this is. The film is truly a fantastic story of two men's obsession and how their obsessions come to destroy one another. It all begins with a magic trick gone horribly wrong and elevates into trickery and showmanship to the Nth degree. The film makes perfect use of the magician’s code of trickery and misdirection and as an audience member you will no doubt feel this very same ethos at play; first tugging you east, then west, only to be spun around in a complete circle and left facing east once again. The storyline moves at a brisk pace with characters who are extremely textured and respond to one another in believable, even understandable ways. My only negative thought on the film was that it slightly too long. Even this I found was necessary to turn what could have been a cheap ending into a very rewarding one for the "attention to detail" crowd. The film honestly could have ended 20 minutes earlier than it did and my review would have been just as glowing. The performances are all very well done and Hugh Jackman finally breaks the X-Men mold with this role. Michael Caine is of course great as well in his supporting role. The costumes are incredibly well done and the make up required to age the characters are spot on. (Damn you Barb, for getting me to pay attention to this) I recommend this movie to anyone who has a curiosity in either magic or science (or are they really one and the same?), anyone who has ever known they are taking something too far and still can't stop, or anyone who thinks they can "figure it out". The cynic need not buy a ticket to this film however since some of the concepts in the plot can be best described as fantasy. (no, not the 3 chicks in a waterbed kind of fantasy) Over the last few years I have seen a few films that brought me all the way up only to be let down by the ending, this is not one of those movies. I left feeling entirely satisfied and I suspect many people leaving the theatre felt the same. Bottom Line? The Prestige - 4 stars. Wow. "Are you watching closely?" Expand
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  55. luisg
    Oct 27, 2006
    8
    You can only fool your audience a few times before they become restless...great performances...entertained but dissapointed at the end.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  56. BrettK
    Oct 28, 2006
    4
    Too long and too predictable. They give away the ending long before the movie is over. Thus, you have to sit and watch over a half an hour of pointless dialogue and plot "twists" for nothing, as it's already been made obvious how the movie will end. Both of the magicians are horrible people, so who cares who wins or loses, lives or dies. A disappointment.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  57. NicolaeG.
    Feb 15, 2007
    10
    Lemme Check... I love how the entire movie straight from the very begining led to the twist at the end, loved the acting and thought it was much more intrguing than The Illusionist not to mention it recieved an Oscar nod for Achievement in Art Direction and Achievement in Cinematography. I'd have to say it was MY favorite movie of 2006.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  58. ChazG.
    Feb 22, 2007
    10
    This film has all of the elements which make a great film. An in depth description of the characters lives and contrasts are effectivly delivered. Absolutly original with a stunning reality found in the end. To all of you appreciate quality film. A great drama with a dash of science fiction. This is a must see/buy. Enjoy.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  59. SteveK.
    Feb 22, 2007
    7
    I was genuinely entertained and gripped, which is good enough for a 7 for me, but I'm still really confused about one thing [***SPOILERS***].. So the trick with Christian Bale's character was fairly predictable, at least for me... Hugh Jackman's character's "trick" on the other hand, I just don't get it... is it really that stupid that he just xeroxed himself or am I missing something here? Maybe all the people giving this movie 10's get it, and I don't. I kinda am not fond of the whole "it's magic, we're not going to tell you everything" endings of The Illusionist and The Prestige.... that has become code for me that you couldn't come up with something ingenious, so you're going to just cop-out on us, because magicians don't reveal their secrets.... That's lame. Expand
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  60. JamesW.
    Mar 4, 2007
    7
    Pros: Outstanding cast and acting, superb sets and costumes, historic verisimilitude. Cons: Confusing flashbacks, uneven timeline, thick British accents, lack of likable characters. I'm not sure I'm glad I saw it.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  61. PhilH.
    Apr 13, 2007
    9
    Near-perfect performances by a near-perfect cast, a highly original and compelling story, a marvellously entertaining thriller. For its genre, one of the best ever. We are informed mid-film that Jackman is playing two roles but he does so with such skill he appears to be two different actors; when we discover at the climax that Bale has done the same, it is even more remarkable. And on top of all of it, the film is constantly a metaphor for itself. Bravo. Expand
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  62. DaleM.
    Apr 15, 2007
    7
    The story is told in a more confusing manner that needs be. The science fiction element basically ruins the movie. If a scientist could create a machine like this, he really wouldn't be looking for someone to finance him. He could create all the gold and money he wanted and bought out his arch-rival Thomas Edison.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  63. JoeA.
    Apr 22, 2007
    5
    Like Memento, a very tightly crafted piece of film-making. Like Memento, you spend the movie wondering which character to dislike the least.
    • 0 of 1 users said yes
  64. ObsceneM.
    May 13, 2007
    10
    I found this flim brilliant, I'm surprised at some of the negative reviews it's recieved. Pay attention to a beginning scene where both magicians are analyzing another act: a "chinaman" whose real trick, Christian Bale's character informs, is his total devotion to his craft. This is the metaphor for the entire film and it plays out without any loose ends whatsoever. The two characters are mirrors of themselves at certain times in their life, which explains the confusing timeline and is also why the ending is superb and ties everything together. It isn't a "trick" ending as some people seem to think it is. I usually don't say this, but anybody that doesn't like this flim simply didn't understand it. Expand
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  65. NickA.
    Jun 29, 2007
    9
    Christopher Nolan has been on the brink of penetrating Hollywood’s elite silver circle of directors since his second feature-film, 'Memento,' which caught the attention of audiences and critics alike and became an instant cult classic. After the tremendous success that was 'Batman Begins,' he assured movie-fanatics across the nation that he was for real. 'The Prestige,' a marvelously directed era extravaganza with top-notch acting and a beguiling script, tells one of the fiercest tales of jealousy, obsession and loathsome rivalry. Christian Bale delivers a tantalizing performance as Alfred Borden, the stories superior magician that lacks the showmanship to be the greatest. Jackman’s performance is the perfect counterpoint as he plays the envious adversary who’s willing to do anything to uncover his foe’s methods. From a technical standpoint, this thriller is nearly faultless, and Nolan magically keeps his audience guessing until the final shot. 'The Prestige' is a riveting suspense-drama that will have even the most avid movie-goers in wonderment at its outcome! Are you watching closely? Expand
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  66. JamesL.
    Sep 1, 2008
    9
    I do not write this review to suggest this film is the most glorious piece of art I have ever seen, I merely write it to suggest that Ebert is a fraud. How dare he receive the "Pulitzer Prize" when a myriad of writers (many of whom write reviews on movies, music, and literature) are unquestionably more equipped than he is. He is verbal troglodyte whose negative comments cloud any semblance of fair judgment on the majority of films he reviews -- nay, anything he writes. He merely posits his myopic views (as fact) without considering that he may, if God may allow it, be foolhardy in his conclusions. Without having a degree of 'prestige' when it comes to describing the plot, characterization, and tone of the film -- Ebert manages to undermine an astronomical cache of film techniques that 'The Prestige' tastefully (yet impressively) offers with restraint -- nay -- poise. He disgusts me and should be shot, tarred, and feathered in a public arena so those who have suffered by his negligence can reap the reward of a fair trial. Ebert, please challenge me so I may show you to be the lesser of two minds and ascend to the glory of your misappropriated job. Expand
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  67. BertR.
    Nov 11, 2006
    9
    Very good, entertaining and frequently suspensful movie. Held my attention through every minute. Very good acting as usual by Bale, Jackman and Caine. Although I guessed (anticipated) some twists, the one right up to the last moment, I had not realized, until I remembered that this movie also contained "science fiction" and required further suspension of disbelief. Worth talking about afterward.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  68. Fantasy
    Nov 18, 2006
    10
    This is the best kept secret of the year. The film is outstanding with an all star cast that feed off each other tremendously. The twists and turns keep the viewer on the edge of his seat. Don't miss this flick as it may turn out to be the most ENTERTAINING film of the year. Go see and enjoy.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  69. T.RobertH.
    Nov 19, 2006
    9
    Directing and acting along with portraying the turn of the century scenery is first rate.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  70. MacLuvsRob
    Nov 19, 2006
    7
    Just a few too many smoke and mirrors in a movie about smoke and mirrors.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  71. Samantha
    Nov 4, 2006
    7
    [***SPOILERS***] "The Prestige" is off to an excellant start, filling the audience with anticipation for a compelling, mind-boggling jigsaw puzzle of a movie. In the beginning, the viewer cares about the two rivals, feeling pity for the grief and guilt they must be experiencing, after a standard magic trick goes horribly awry. The movie then heads in a downward spiral, as the viewer starts to care less and less about the main characters and plot points become implausible. ( It may be Angier's and Borden's profession to use simple diversions to fool their audiences, but they managed to get fooled by fake beards numerous times.) The two men become merciless in their obsession with one another, and it becomes dark, twisted and tiring. The climax of the movie reveals an interesting twist, and loose ends are tied up nicely, yet the movie does not feel concluded. It is as if the movie cannot decide whether the ending should be uplifting or macabre, although it accomplishes macabre. To sum up: it's a film worth watching, but expect some disappointments. And SPOILER WARNING: to those who have seen the film: are you wondering what Angier did with all those corpses he must have had from the transporter trick done at the end? Because I am. Expand
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  72. IP
    Nov 4, 2006
    5
    Very disapointing. I loved Memento and was really looking forward to this but... way overrated. The movie was set up pretty well, it kept me interested through the twists bu then an hour before the end Nolan introduces something supernatural that explains everything. Once we see this, the climax becomes predictable from a mile away. Then when you think about what happened, there are a million holes in the story. It's too bad, hopefully the next Nolan movie will be more of Memento quality. Expand
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  73. PownyBrown
    Oct 15, 2006
    10
    Very entertaining! Dark fun!
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  74. Nick
    Oct 16, 2006
    10
    A truly fantastic, involving, surprising movie -- and that surprising bit had got nothing to do with the twists at the end.... Highly recommended.
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  75. JohnY.
    Oct 16, 2006
    10
    A stunner of a film. "The Prestige" works as a cinematic magic trick that captivates with its experimental narrative structure and entertains with its strong performances and thick atmosphere. It's thrilling and fun, and it is ultimately a disturbing look at the costs of blind obsession. One the year's best films.
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  76. BrianD.
    Oct 21, 2006
    10
    If a movie can leave me still trying to figure it out and manage not to suck, Ill give it a 10.
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  77. AnnaP.
    Oct 21, 2006
    8
    I liked this a lot. The acting was great, the sets and costumes good, the plot was intricate and fun. It ran a little long, but I enjoyed it nonetheless.
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  78. PatrickM.
    Oct 21, 2006
    8
    Riveting movie, buffeted by a small, but critical role by the legendary David Bowie. In the end you may be scratching your head as to who did what to whom but, at the very least, you will be thinking about it after you pull-out of the multiplex's parking lot. Worth every penny of that $9.00 admission.
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  79. D.Smith
    Oct 21, 2006
    9
    Understanding the "trick" is knowing what to look for. In essence, the film is another piece of "magic" weaved by Nolan. In order to understand and know, you have to watch the hand and not the object.
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  80. NancyH.
    Oct 21, 2006
    8
    Surpisingly liked this more than the critics did...and yes, it's convulted and did leave some unanswered questions. But don't want to post my questions and spoil it for the rest of you. Cast is very good and cinematography captures the mood of the period. But I liked the Illusionist better.
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  81. AlexB.
    Oct 21, 2006
    0
    Boring, predictable, terrible characters, slow, pointless. How could ANYONE like this pile?
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  82. [Anonymous]
    Oct 22, 2006
    10
    Christopher Nolan proves himself, once again, as a supurb director who casts only the most talented actors.
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  83. PaulK.
    Oct 22, 2006
    9
    It takes awhile to get going, but the tricked out/heady ending is a strong payoff. Initially I was confused when the credits began to roll, but after a disecting post screening conversation, it all came together. Definitely worth seeing in the theater.
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  84. GaborA.
    Oct 22, 2006
    2
    Atrocious. Nolan is wading in Shyamalan territory with his dissapointing new release. Apart from an uninvolving and senseless plot its just a terrible script. There's probably 4 real scenes in this movie and then hundreds of montages, flashbacks, series of shots, and just general cuts all over the place.
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  85. ArinB.
    Dec 23, 2006
    10
    This is perhaps my favorite movie of the year. Tied with "The Fountain" and "Little Miss Sunshine."
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  86. AamerA.
    Dec 29, 2006
    6
    Clever but contrived and even a bit silly at the same time. The Illusionist pulled a similar trick, only better and more convincingly.
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  87. KatarinaJ.
    Dec 30, 2006
    10
    Amazing! I loved it so much! Great acting and creative story.
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  88. gp
    Oct 23, 2006
    5
    It had the actors and twisting plot to keep you interested, but the ending was such a copout that you just feel cheated. Weak.
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  89. JamesS
    Oct 24, 2006
    5
    Stylish and definitely cool-with the great performances- the movie breaks some of the golden rules of story-telling- not only do you not root for either main character, the entire story is based on illusion- or more plainly put- lies. [***SPOILERS***] The ending goes beyond far-fetched- and to such lengths to deceive- it’s ultimately unfulfilling. 4 of us went- and none of us were too impressed.
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  90. Elliot
    Oct 24, 2006
    9
    [***SPOILERS***] Most critics seem to miss the fact that this movie is, in part, about differences between cloning and copying a person, and the philosophical/ethical issues raised by technological innovation. Its just as smart as Memento and says more about the nature of identity (Nolan's recurring theme) than other "emptier" mysteries like The Usual Suspects ever could.
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  91. MariRocha
    Feb 19, 2007
    10
    Clever, quick and interesting! Can't blink! Lots of surprises! Hugh Jackman is amazing as always!
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  92. SchuylerC.
    Mar 12, 2007
    4
    A lot of big names but it was very slow moving, I couldn't pay attention to it I must have zoned out for half the movie. It didn't get interesting until they started replicating cats. The plot didn't make much sense I felt like I was high or something and I haven't used drugs in years. Two horrible performing magic rivals who keep killing their stage hand girl friends with the same stupid trick, then one is trying to figure out the others secret while he is funding a scientific experiment that replicates and makes things disappear. Why would he even care about anything else. That was basically the highlight of the movie the sci fi element if I had something like that I would create a lot of romantic love slaves of anyone I wanted then disappear. Expand
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  93. MichaelH
    Apr 12, 2008
    7
    Not nearly as tight as Momento.. tends to wander a little bit. Some fine acting and some interesting period pieces. The characters though are a little too promiscuous and shifting to hold our attention for long, they are like ciphers...maybe intentional but it somehow was not as neatly tied together as Momento.
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  94. ViktorN.
    Apr 23, 2008
    8
    Quite a wonderful film ride, some may think this is a slow movie thats boring and pointless and with "plot holes" or whatever. I am not one of them. I really do like this film more than The Illusionist by a bit, it still thrills me to see Mr Bale and Mr Jackman hacking away at each other on screen. Easily one of the best films of 2006. On par with Children of Men and Pan's Labyrinth.
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  95. DevonS.
    Apr 27, 2008
    7
    Great special effects, and (too) many twists and turns make up for the many spots where this film could've ended.
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  96. PaulL.
    Jul 21, 2008
    9
    full of twist and turns this movie is a fun ride to be. Awesome rivalry between these two. Good movie too.
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  97. GrantH.
    Jul 29, 2008
    10
    A true masterpiece. its one of my favorite movies. the scores giving to it by the critics don't do it justice. the ending is the best ending to any movie I have seen.
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  98. R.L.
    Mar 16, 2009
    10
    There are three acts to a magicians show. The first is called the pledge: the magician shows the audience something normal, but in reality it's not. The second act is called the turn: The Magician makes the ordinary something do something incredible.The third act is called The Prestige, and that is what this exceptional film is about. The Prestige stars Hugh Jackman and Christian Bale as Robert Angier and Alfred Borden, they were best friends and partners until one night one of there biggest tricks went horribly wrong and cost them a valued member of the act.The two friends are now the bitterest of rivals; trying to out do each other to see who's the better magician. As the rivalry escalates into a full blow obsession, the two magicians start to make and preform more and more dangerous tricks. But all is not what it seems. The Prestige directed by Christopher Nolan and based on the novel by Christopher Priest is the second movie made to explore the depths of stage magic, and it is by far the best one, The Prestige is a dark and sinister psychological thriller that will boggle your mind and keep you coming back for even more.You'll want to see it again the minute it's over, it's that good, this film explores the depths of what revenge and obsession does to a man, what it does to a person and what it can do to your life. We see that on Angier's part that it has turned him into a monster,a man who would kill to be the best, Borden on the other hands has not been affected to much, by this we can that this rivalry doesn't extend all the way into Alfred's life as it does Robert's. Obsession and revenge is a thing that most people live for and thrive on everyday of there lives. We see that here with Robert, he won't stop until he's destroyed Alfred's life, that's revenge. Angier will also stop at nothing until he learns all of Borden's secret's, that's obsession. put those two together and you've got a movie you can't afford the miss. Also watch closely because nothing is what it seems. Expand
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  99. JohnP.
    Nov 18, 2006
    10
    I went back a second time to see this one. The plot was that good. Every part of the production was very well done, from sets to the cinematography and every actor and line. I've seen most of the highly acclaimed films this year, and this is my favorite. And as for Michael Caine -- A+ as usual.
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  100. MaxS.
    Nov 27, 2006
    5
    The movie went on for way too long and the ending was entirely too jumbled up. It should have ended a lot sooner than it did. I was not endeared to any of the characters, however, the magic tricks shown were interesting and made it entertaining enough.
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Metascore

Generally favorable reviews - based on 36 Critics

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 26 out of 36
  2. Negative: 1 out of 36
  1. Audiences might enjoy this cinematic sleight of hand, but the key characters are such single-minded, calculating individuals that the real magic would be to find any heart in this tale.
  2. Reviewed by: Dennis Harvey
    40
    Clearly, director Nolan is aiming for something else. But the delight in sheer gamesmanship that marked his breakout "Memento" doesn't survive this project's gimmickry and aspirations toward "Les Miserables"-style epic passion.
  3. Reviewed by: Scott Foundas
    70
    The result is a lopsided yet absorbing movie in which the director is less drawn to his main characters than to those on the periphery.