Magicians

I'm a bit of a movie snob, and admittedly, this is in the Godfather or even some Woody Allen classic, but this is a really funny movie and it's also quite heartfelt. It's a real shame that this is basically impossible to find. I'm lucky to still have a used DVD from Blockbuster, but would love to see this streaming somewhere. If you come across it and you like bazaar comedy, I highly recommend this movie.

I viewed this movie in DVD format. My copy may have been affected but I was disappointed with the lack of menu screen for the DVD. I will say that my initial reason for viewing this movie was Claire Forlani. While fun to watch, I feel she didn't live up to my expectations that I have so far found from her other films. I actually was equally pleased to see Arkin turn in a humorous performance. The other two actors I wasn't very familiar with so I can't compare their performance, however they were fairly enjoyable also. The acting is the only endearing quality of this movie in my opinion. The story line, while some could say slightly compelling, lacked direction. I feel that the main problem stems from the script and not the direction of this film. If you enjoy any of these actors to a fair extent then I recommend this film, but otherwise leave it alone.

This is a quirky little movie, and I have to agree that there is some quirky acting in it as well.

It follows the adventures of a young man who decides that he wants to become a famous Las Vegas illusionist, and is partly about following his dream, partly about the dreams of others, and all about the travails of showbiz. I thought the movie was charming, and it has a moment or two of real magic that make the whole thing worthwhile.

Alan Arkin is terrific as the magician who never was, and his mentoring of Max makes for a funny and touching relationship.

Not for everyone, probably, but if you like movies about the journey, then I think you'll like this one.

I have wanted to see this for the longest time, James Merendino is a great director. SLC Punk is one of my favorite movies, and in the first ten minutes of this film I thought that it was a great follow up after that though, it begins to drag. The acting and direction were terrific. In fact everything in the film seemed to flow except for the script. At times, the only thing keeping my attention was the fact that in the cast was the most beautiful woman in the world, Claire Forlani. This film was good, but I expected more.

P.S. Look for great cameos by Chi McBride, and Chris McDonald.

Wrapping a road movie around a misfit group of wannabe magicians is unique, and this creativity drives "Magicians" into above average territory. With interesting dialog, good character development, and a reasonable story, the film succeeds in maintaining interest. The clunky magic acts are sometimes quite funny. All the participants, though flawed, never give up. Almost everyone will be left with a positive experience after seeing a disheveled bunch of losers transform into believers, and ultimately succeed in accomplishing their dream. "Magicians" is good uplifting entertainment, and recommended viewing. - MERK