The Illusionist

9.1/10 Dropps

Genre: Drama, Animation, Art House & International, Comedy
Rated: PG
Running Time: 1 hr. 22 min.
In Theaters: Dec 25, 2010 Limited
Box Office:$0.8M
Directed By: Sylvain Chomet
Written By: Sylvain Chomet, Jacques Tati

Jacques Tati, writer of Traffic, Play Time, Mr. Hulot’s Holiday, and The Big Day, to name a few (all of which are 100% Certified Fresh films on Rotten Tomatoes), passed away in 1982, and yet his films continue to create an important connection. The Illusionist (L’illusionniste), is the first film by Tati to be released in nearly 30 years, and although written and intended to be a live-action film, this animated gem beautifully captures the late writer’s vision and personality.

The Illusionist (L’illusionniste) tells the story of a nameless magician trying to stay afloat in a world of rapidly changing entertainment ideals. The late 1950s brought about the appeal of the modern rock band and forced out the already-dying art of magic, a craft that had previously been very popular. As our protagonist performs in seemingly any venue that will have him (fringe theaters, bars, garden parties, etc.), he comes across a young girl who is captivated by his presence and as she joins him on his journey, she changes his life.

Though released in 2010, The Illusionist is just now making its gradual appearance in theaters across the United States (likely because of its inclusion in the “Best Animated Picture” categories at both the Academy Awards and Golden Globes).

Unlike its competition, How To Train Your Dragon and Toy Story 3, The Illusionist is traditional in its approach to animation. Meaning instead of the go-to, animated blockbuster approach of computer generated graphics which seems to be taking over the “animated” genre in filmmaking, The Illusionist appears more as a living, breathing, moving oil painting than a cartoony video game. The film is absolutely mesmerizing in its final form – an adventure into a beautifully imagined and executed landscape that truly captures and holds the viewer’s attention. 

Possibly the most interesting aspect of The Illusionist is its power to convey a story with virtually no comprehendible dialogue. The film covers an array of languages from beginning to end, but none of them, even when marginally understandable, have a real impact on the story. The Illusionist is stunningly delicate in its approach to filmmaking, making the viewer realize that a story written and expressed with emotion –both humor and love – can be done without words.

The Illusionist is 2010’s sleeper animated masterpiece; directed by Sylvain Chomet (Paris, Je T’aime, The Triplets of Belleville), the film continues Chomet’s stellar line of success in the animated realm of film. It’s a must-see piece, even for those who aren’t fans of the genre.