The Prestige

***1/2 Stars

The Prestige is a fast paced, dazzling white knuckler. Director Christopher Nolan is a wizard when it comes to creating elaborate magic tricks. Hugh Jackman and Christian Bale turn in knockout performances as two rival magicians. This is one final act you won’t want to miss.

Two young magicians set out to become famous turn-of-the-century London. Robert Angier (Jackman) is the entertainer and Alfred Borden (Bale) is the creative genius but lacks the showmanship of Angier. They start out as admiring friends and partners. But then their biggest trick goes terribly awry when Angier’s wife is killed. They become enemies for life, outdoing and upending the other.

Michael Caine is explosive as Cutter, the insider who explains how every trick has three acts: The Pledge that sets the stage, The Turn that makes it disappear, and The Prestige that brings the magic back to life. Scarlett Johansson is sexier than ever as Angier’s assistant. Other cast members turn in great performances including Andy Serkis and David Bowie (that’s right, David Bowie) as Nikola Tesla, the creator of “The Transported Man” an illusion that is a scientific phenomenon. So sit back and enjoy The Prestige, because Nolan's thriller won’t let you take a moments breath.