I was very surprised by two things when "The Illusionist" began. First, the DVD did not have any French language track. I know the film was actually made in the UK but the folks responsible were French. But, as the film progressed I noticed it did have French and English as well as nonsense language--though it didn't matter much, as there actually was very little dialog. However, I sure would have liked to see the French subtitles as well as English instead of "Speaking French" appearing some of the time they spoke in this language--especially since I probably could have understood these subtitles (more or less). Second, the film was from a script by Jacques Tati--the actor made famous by his Mr. Hulot character (who is practically a national institution in France). Apparently, Tati wrote the script and never made the film himself. This is apparent in the lack of dialog and reliance on action and non-verbal characterizations--a Tati trademark. Because of this, the film makers made the leading man look and act a bit like Tati as well.

I must admit up front that I am not a particular fan of Tati's films, though I really love French movies. There's just something about his Hulot character that never resonated with me. Perhaps a cartoon inspired by him will be more to my liking. I chose to see this film, actually, because it was one of the nominees for Best Animated Feature for the recent Oscars. Is it good enough and original enough that it should have received the nomination instead of excellent films like "Despicable Me", "Tangled" or "Mega-Mind"? That's because in an odd occurrence, only three films were nominated--"Toy Story 3" (which won),"How to Train Your Dragon" and "The Illusionist".

Up front, I must stay that it was nice to see a non-CGI animated film nominated. Like Sylvain Chomet's prior famous film, "The Triplets of Belleville", this one has a nice unique art style all its own--nothing like a Disney or Miyazaki film. I appreciated the fine line drawings, backgrounds and sepia tones. Also, I think the quality is actually a good bit nicer than "The Triplets"--showing a nice improvement and evolution in style. It sure looked good. I especially liked the scenes of Edinburgh--it made me remember the times I visited this incredibly lovely city.

The plot involves a small-time magician who is touring Scotland circa 1960. He's a nice guy and feels sorry for a maid in one of the Bed & Breaksfasts where he's staying. His acts of kindness towards her convince her to follow him. This is VERY reminiscent of a Chaplin plot--such as "Modern Times", "The Circus" or "Limelight"--the older relatively poor guy and the waif-like younger lady. It's all very slow and sweet--the sort of film that would completely bore a child to death. However, it should be pointed out that this was NOT intended as a kids' movie even if it is animated. Few kids would like the pace, the very dark moments (one supporting character is contemplating suicide) or appreciate the struggle between paternal and romantic love between the two characters.

I liked "The Illusionist" very much (more than a typical Tati film) but must admit that despite its artistry, it was a slow and depressing film in many ways. The grayness of the city, the music and sad plot all conspire to make the viewer feel pretty miserable. This is NOT to say it's a bad film or you should avoid it--just be aware--especially if you yourself are depressed.

Now did this film deserve to be one of only three nominees? Yes and no. Yes, as I gave it a 9--it was lovely and different. However, it did seem inexplicable that "Tangled" wasn't nominated as well, as its style was also very, very unique--though still a CGI movie. As a result, I really wished the Academy had included this one other nominee as well, though their rules forbade it.

By the way, in a cute homage to Tati, in one scene (at the 67 minute mark),the magician is standing outside a theater playing the Tati film "Mon Oncle"! You even see him enter the place a a brief clip of this Hulot film is seen!

I am a fan of animated movies, and I loved The Illusionist. I even liked it more than the wonderful Triplets of Belleville, while the latter had a more succinct story perhaps, the charm is there in both. Whereas Triplets of Belleville has it The Illusionist epitomises it. The dialogue is very minimal, and while people may find the story slight in an infuriating way, I think the slightness worked and in the film's favour.

While the characters are good and the interaction between them touching, the pace suitably elegiac and Chomet's direction superb, the visuals and music are the strongest elements of The Illusionist. The music is beautiful and powerful, and really gives a certain emotional resonance to each scene. And the visuals are just gorgeous, old fashioned yes but very beautiful and distinctive. I loved how Scotland is portrayed as a land of innocence and magic, while the period detail is immaculate, the colours have a unique stylistic look to them and the characters move well. What blew me away animation wise were the landscapes, which were stunningly realised.

Overall, a stunning animated film and for me one of the best films of the year. 10/10 Bethany Cox

In 1959 Paris, Tatischeff's old magic tricks with his vicious chubby white rabbit are not exciting the crowds anymore. He is slowly losing jobs and working in worst venues. Performing in London, he accepts an invitation to a remote Scottish island. He befriends Alice. He moves on to Edinburgh and is followed by Alice who thinks he possesses real magic.

There is a melancholy feel throughout this movie punctuated by moments of charming light comedy. The magician's world is slowly fading away. It does take something out of you. The animation is old fashion. It is very touching and full of lost. This is a sad poignant movie.