THE PRESTIGE ***

This film has a terrific preview and if you've watched any TV at all in the past few weeks you must have seen it several times. For the most part the film lives up to the preview. As with any magic act, it's all about diverting the viewer's attention and the film warns you to watch closely right from the start.

The story is about two magicians who are friends but become bitter enemies after a tragic death. They each become as interested in destroying the other, both personally and professionally, as they are in developing their careers. The plot moves back and forth between the two as well as back and forth in time. That makes it somewhat confusing but also keeps your interest high.

I didn't have that much trouble figuring out the plot as clues are provided throughout, although I found the very last scene a little confusing. The actors do a fine job and the production values are impressive. This is a good couples movie but some scenes will frighten younger viewers.