The Prestige (2006)

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Christopher Nolan directs this mysterious story of two magicians whose intense rivalry leads them on a life-long battle for supremacy full of obsession, deceit and jealousy with dangerous and deadly consequences. (Touchstone Pictures)

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Directed By: Christopher Nolan

Written By: Christopher Nolan, Jonathan Nolan, Christopher Priest

Starring: Michael Caine, Scarlett Johansson, David Bowie, Christian Bale, Andy Serkis, Hugh Jackman, Rebecca Hall, Piper Perabo, Roger Rees, Ricky Jay, Jamie Harris, Samantha Mahurin

Genres: Drama, Sci-fi, Fantasy, Mystery

Country: UK, USA

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The Prestige belongs to 101 collections

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All Ratings | With Reviews

Order by:

TCI | Percentile | Date Rated | # Stars (Reviews)

Stars	User	Rating
12	Grit	89 _95th
A modern masterpiece. Fantastic plot which remains totally gripping and unpredictable from start to finish coupled with some fantastic acting, especially from Bale and Jackman in the leading roles. Subtle, intelligent and wonderful.
11	KasperL	98 _99th
Amazing and intricate story about obsession and deception. Each time I revisit Nolan's sly, moody, well-acted genrebender, I love it more. Knowing the tricks up his sleeve, one appreciates all the setups and misdirections. Alert first-time viewers will be able to predict some twists and turns of the plot but knowing Borden's secret early doesn't deflate the suspense, and it helps pull the rug out from under you later if you think that you've already figured out the mystery. An all-time favorite.
11	Hawkins	88 _86th
Yeah it's convoluted and absurd - you have to accept that Tesla invents the replicator from Star Trek and then gives it away for the sake of performance art instead of just using it to print money. But ultimately it's a pretty gripping noirish-mystery with an excellent lead rivalry, no real heroes (refreshing!) and a unique sci-fi twist that's right up my alley.
7	eveelun	82 _85th
An exciting and enigmatic piece with an intricate and detailed plot that keeps you guessing until the end - even when I had one element figured out, another one would surprise me. The acting by Bale and Jackman is fantastic, and the dark and moody atmosphere is highly appropriate.
6	Tripwyre	94 _95th
Hats off to the Nolans for a truly masterful script. Very economic storytelling, there isn't an empty moment in the entire film. The acting is terrific from both leads, but Caine is especially good as their mentor. My favourite quality of the film is that it doesn't feel obligated to make us root for one man over the other. They are both equally flawed men with believable motivations, and the movie doesn't need a hero to work. A strong film that gets better and better with repeat viewings.
6	BeeDub	100 _97th
Nolan delivers again with an engaging tale of obsession and revenge in the world of professional magicians. Incredible atmosphere and top-notch acting all around. The "twist" might put some people off, as it takes the material in a very unexpected and fantastical direction, but the core story of bitter one-upmanship is very strong.
5	CCLZA	70 _51st
A great film that could be truly awesome if it wasn't for that slightly over-long and explicative ending.
5	RFaraday	100 _93rd
I can't say enough good things about this brilliant film from Chris Nolan. The acting from Caine, Jackman and Bale was top notch, the cinematography was dark and gritty in a way that complemented the story, and the story itself (adapted from Priest's novel) was complex and clever. My only complaint is that I'd have liked a stronger score, but the bits that I did hear augmented the visuals well enough. Easily one of the best movies of 2006.
5	Paxton	90 _97th
I'll take this and Inception over the Batman movies every day of the week. Nolan is just fantastic. Bale vs. Jackman is a wonderful match-up, Caine delivers as always, Bowie has a cameo tailored to perfection, and Johansson appears literate.
4	psiXaos	80 _83rd
Nolan has created a stylized period atmosphere with a sense of 'magic' in the air. There are problems with the ending, especially the stretch and explicitness of it. But overall it is a wonderful and smart experience with good acting.
4	weirdyoda	94 _92nd
I like movies where I think "Hey, I haven't seen this story before." Really awesome narrative structure and clever plot (thanks to the book author). Nolan truly makes the late 1800's magician world come to life. There is so much going on in this movie, and it only gets better with repeated viewings. Plus brilliant casting.
4	frederic_g54	10 _97th
(after repeat viewings, Blu Ray): The look of this film is marvelous and there's this unshakable menacing feeling I find highly appealing. Hugh Jackman's and Christian Bale give one of their best performances to date, one of the many reasons I loved this film.
4	Shadrik	90 _96th
A beautifully crafted film, playing out like a magic trick itself.
4	RealMacgyver	100 _99th
Great mystery film that leaves you guessing to the end. Well almost, all the clues are there and I saw what was coming before it arrived some of the time, but the prestige of the film is as good as the tricks.
4	Bagger	95 _99th
Even the staunchest detractors of Nolan, whether they're too clever for Inception or too highbrow for The Dark Knight,or worst of all underground enough to claim Memento was his only good flick should just watch this again. Because if nothing else it proves them right, and that Nolan knows it, as he exposes filmmaking for what it is - sleight of hand, where at its best you feel like you've got one up on the magician, right until he pulls the rabbit out his arse, and not his plethora of hats.
4	lena_c	6 _98th
I'm completely on board now, when people say: This is a GREAT movie! *Fantastic
4	Matija D	99 _99th
Chris Nolan showing why he really is a genius! Such an amazing movie and such a powerful twist. The funny thing is that throughout the whole movie you have clues, but it still manages to fool you. EPIC!
3	JohnnyZombie	95 _95th
This movie is awesome for the performances and for the cinematic magic trick that Christopher Nolan created.
3	Phlag	52 _8th
The first 2/3rds were good, but the resolutions were entirely too contrived and unbelievable. The twists seemed too forced and inelegant.
3	ozymandius10	87 _94th
A movie with a slow start that builds to an amazing climax. Everything about it was excellent.
3	Alex Watkins	3 _38th
The atmosphere is tense and frightening at times, the performances are uniformly strong, the plot is twisting, labyrinthian and quite engaging - and somehow, this film, as enjoyable as it is, falls short of greatness and I can't quite explain why. Perhaps it's because it so eagerly offers up its secrets at the end and leaves no shred of mystery for the viewer to figure out, or maybe because there's an element of "cheating" to it. Either way, it's a fun ride, but it's missing something.
3	Farzan	92 _92nd
The Prestige was a terrific film. The acting was all around marvelous. This movie had such a great cast. I really enjoyed it. I should have enjoyed it more than I did, but there was something missing, just like in every other one of Nolan's films, I just don't know what. Bale is definitely gonna be one of the more successfull actors in his generation, and this film is a good example as to why. A terrific story, and a terrific twist ending, definitely worth a watch.
3	ReV_VAdAUL	93 _92nd
A brilliant mystery/thriller that actually gives you a chance to work out whats going on, though you wont until a second viewing and then you'll kick yourself. Also manages to jump between 3 seperate time streams without skipping a beat, the actings top notch and while slightly anachronistic the setting comes off as distinctly victorian. An overlooked classic. See it as soon as you can.
3	John Locke	100 _98th
My favorite Nolan.
3	Luna6ix	93 _99th
i'm sorry to say in order to truly appreciate this movie you need to watch it at least twice, AT LEAST. on the other hand, this has a truly original, and thrilling story that is so well written i am befuddled why it has not been a national sensation that everyone is required to watch by law.
3	calharding	87 _83rd
Beautifully shot, this film - with Nolan's typically non-linear script - challenges the viewer throughout, but never becomes unmanageably complex. The two leads are excellent, but Bowie stands out in his fantastic portrayal of Nikola Tesla. The final twist is an understated, but shockingly unexpected reveal the likes of which M. Knight Shyamalan can only dream.
3	XakkMaster	98 _98th
One of the few movies I've ever seen where the ending completely surprised me and left me speechless. The acting is tremendous and the direction impeccable. So many interesting camera angles and wonderful set pieces punctuate a masterfully constructed atmosphere.
3	movieboy	87 _98th
Wow!!! Why does someone who can make movies like The Prestige & Memento waste his time with comic book movies. This is one of my top 10 movies.
3	Bunken	80 _88th
"Are you watching closely?" such says the introducing voiceover in Nolans great The Prestige. But do yourself a favor and dont watch to closely, cause then the twists and turns wont be to hard to spot. Instead, lean back and enjoy a great tale of rivalry, ambition and desire for making the perfect magic trick. Abracadabra!
3	snallygaster	82 _91st
I expected a story about obsession, filled with puzzles & plot twists, and this would be an adequate movie if that's all it was. The interesting thing is the way the theme of illusion/fantasy develops through the story, and how it seems to be using the audience-magician relationship in the movie to explore the audience-film relationship in real life. A pleasant surprise.
2	BattleToad	93 _94th
I was not surprised to find myself enjoying The Prestige, as I am a fan of many of the lead actors and the director. I was, however, very surprised by how immensely unpredictable and dark the film was. With a very captivating plot, and a combination of mystery and fantasy that will boggle the mind, The Prestige turned out to be even better than expected. Awesome!
2	Pickpocket	8 _82nd
I can't believe that was David Bowie.
2	supergloo	2 _5th
The impressive production value and performances (especially Christian Bale) do not redeem an utterly preposterous plot.
2	cagedwisdom	100 _90th
I was worried halfway through about the direction this had taken. Then it completely turned around and satisfied me in every single little way; at least the way it unfolded so I just managed to understand what was going on before it actually happened. Marvellous, though a few very small flaws. Very much worth a watch.
2	teknicolor	83 _81st
I was not expecting that ending at all, very well done.
2	walkabout	60 _38th
Completely predictable and therefore, it gets really boring towards the end.
2	Nathan S	3 _45th
I was surprised by the sheer depths of depravity on display here. What awful people. It is a well made and fun film, successfully treading a fractured timeline with great performances and lovely production design. It's just unfortunate that, like many of Nolan's films, it relies so heavily upon twists and revelations. For a film about secrecy and illusion, it can't help but divulge its own tricks.
2	coffee	75 _61st
I didn't fell in love.. It was OK..
2	Mentaculus	62 _37th
I have a hard time defending this film, especially upon repeat viewings. The casting is absolutely fantastic. But the 'twist' ending, the flashback-within-a-flashback and a too-convoluted narrative burden the film where it needn't be; plus, on a basic level, why would Nolan reveal his prestige? Isn't that against the point?
2	darkman	85 _94th
Compelling. A great show with a great cast. Pure movie magic.
2	KlausGlenski	70 _50th
This flick displays a story with a lot of suspension, an exciting scenery and some good acting. On the other hand the story could need a little more depth to make it more than simple entertainment. The repeated confusion doesn't make it alone. Anyawys, it's great entertainment...
2	ruloaas	100 _92nd
I was so trapped by its story and mood that I had to see it several times in theaters.
2	Jeb	90 _79th
The Prestige is terrific. Many of the aspect, if not all of them in it is extraordinary. Like walking through a long labyrinth full of so many gateways: you're going to find something special in each door. Bale once again dishes out a awesome performance, backed-up by Caine who is severly underrated. The third act though I felt was a bit shallow, and the twist was expected. Still perfect.
2	Giban	100 _96th
I want to rate this 110, phenomenal.
2	astrakhan	82 _85th
Another very impressive intellectual thriller from Christopher Nolan, whose body of work is starting to show common themes and recurring patterns such as duplications of personal identity and blurred boundaries between reality and illusion. Nolan himself is a master illusionist, and his dedication to his tricks is evident in the quality package of production design, sound, editing, casting and acting on display here. Perhaps one too many twists up its sleeve, but a remarkable story nonetheless.
2	spleen	87 _88th
In a wacky Marvel/DC crossover, Batman versus Wolverine in a no-holds barred magic-off. Fortunately Black Widow and Alfred the butler are there to minimize the collateral damage.
2	Okkervil	94 _99th
Putting aside the two very average female leads in this film, The Prestige is another example of Nolan's brilliance. Totally gripping, with a pulsating last half hour, that is a brilliant climax to a great plot which takes all the best parts from the also excellent novel by Christopher Priest. Brilliantly shot, with a great script and two stunning male lead performances. If it wasn't for Johansson and Hall's stodgy performances I would have scored it even higher. Still magnificent however.
2	monkeyflip	56 _53rd
Watch if you want to see a very well done & entertaining magician rivalry set in the early days of electricity & wonder. Your satisfaction with the secrets of some of the magic tricks will depend somewhat on your taste & personality but it is still entertaining with good direction, acting and setting.
2	overrated	85 _94th
Bowie as Tesla? I think I just came a little.
2	ArchGunner	95 _97th
The Prestige is an epic tale seen from the viewpoint of two rival magicians who strive to be better than the other. The amazing performances of Jackman and Bale and the engaging script keeps you hooked up until the last minute, this is a mystery you must surely indulge. A Masterpiece.
2	JLFM	97 _98th
Even by Nolan’s standards, The Prestige is bleak, depressing, and ultimately quite disturbing, but the magic is in how addictive the experience is. Regardless of whether you predict Borden’s secret or not, the mastery of Nolan’s storytelling keeps you utterly transfixed. Admittedly, not everything quite adds up to the logical mind on a scene-by-scene basis, but that’s okay, because you don’t really want to work it out. You just want to be fooled.
1	MartinTeller	83 _77th
A fun mental exercise with some nice meta touches. I'm neither a Jackman fan nor a Bale fan, but I found both of them enjoyable in their roles (Caine, Johannsen and Bowie are largely forgettable, however). And there's certainly a fine level of craftsmanship involved. But it's the same old problem with Nolan... his movies are neither soulful enough to be emotionally involving nor insightful enough to be very thoughtful. There's CRAFT to it, but very little ART. But I did like the craft of it.
1	TidusFFX	88 _83rd
The big twist is kind of predictable and cheap, but the ending and particularly the way of narration more than make up for it. Excellent movie.
1	leshii	96 _97th
Holy crap.
1	djross	65 _70th
Entertaining exploration of obsession. The narrative is cleverly concocted if more than a little preposterous. Falls away slightly in the third act.
1	Chili	90 _81st
A fantastically acted, and incredibly well developed storyline make the prestige one of the best movies of '06.
1	kranksta	100 _99th
amazing film, left me dumbfounded, fantastic acting and captivating story. WOW.
1	newlikegrace	81 _85th
Batman vs. Wolverine, as Alfred watches. I loved it.
1	TheDiceman	80 _95th
Dare I say magical film.
1	zapfdingbat	92 _93rd
Great characters, great story.
1	Vince Leo (Qwipster's Movie Reviews)	58 _32nd
Writer-director Christopher Nolan nails the The Pledge and The Turn, but fumbles in the third act by delivering The Turn again, only in reverse; it makes something extraordinary ordinary. [Full Review]
1	mikeparasol	90 _87th
Great performances, and a intricate and complex plot that reveals itself slowly. The twists were unexpected and the movie does well in capturing the essence of a magic trick in its telling , and denouement.
1	th_mertens	73 _62nd
Nolan keeps on working his magic. An incredible puzzle with Bale and Jackman at their best.
1	gid_j	81 _90th
Superb, most of the twists are guessable apart from the one that clicks into place after the film has finished, that the film itself is a magic trick and a self aware oe at that. Some of the best bringing of an audience into a film I have seen
1	aethewulf	80 _73rd
I didn't like the "sci fi part" of the story(actually it's multi-layered story, you can not exactly sure about it's real or sci-fi in movie, but you know Tesla didnt do that kind of machine in real life:) ) but it's well-written & well-made movie anyway.
1	PeaceAnarchy	92 _97th
Some great acting by Bale and Jackman really carries this film about the fine line between illusion and reality. The best part is that while everything is in reference to the two magicians and their tricks, many of the themes and ideas apply beyond the world of the movie to the movie itself and its viewers.
1	HalfJapanese	90 _90th
A fantastic film that dips in and out of several genres through its runtime. Far, far better than the also-ran Illusionist.
1	JohnLocke	95 _82nd
Christopher Nolan tackels (kind of) Sci-Fi. I love how Nolan takes the opening monlogue (a speech on the three parts of a magic trick) and essentially does the same thing throughout the movie. The prestige of "The Prestige" is fantastic.
1	Murravener	90 _90th
One of the biggest surprises I've ever experienced seeing a film, this is a truly fresh plot idea with great acting. One hell of a film.
1	AFlickering	4 _58th
like b. wayne, these guys sacrifice their selves to maintain a manifestation of god for the masses, and once again they're surrogates for nolan - the ultimate depressed, altruistic rationalist spinning out wondrous mechanical fakeries only he can see through (or so he'd like to think). the play's the thing, but ironically the only one who really sells their act here is rebecca hall, and nolan remains more a fascinating auteur than a fulfilling filmmaker.
1	Skenkere	94 _98th
I absolutely loved this movie. The acting is fantastic especially from Bale, and Nolan reminds me why he's one of my favorite directors. The real star of this movie though, is the script, which twists and turns and pulls its own little magic trick. Watch it a second time, and even though you know the tricks, you'll notice all the brilliantly subtle hints and references.
1	rob	17 _94th
It twists and turns without ever feeling forced or too clever for its own good, but it also just oozes atmosphere. There are some great performances from a fine cast, but the icing on the cake is the characteristically wonderful direction and cinematography from the increasingly brilliant Nolan/Pfister partnership. Really great.
1	caiman	91 _94th
I love this movie. The turn of the century setting feels real, and the old fashioned magic tricks are great. The script is complex, yet the movie is directed with such tight control that everything is easy to follow and satisfying to see unfold. The film is full of little details and clues that become so fun to notice once you watch it for a second time. All the actors are fantastic, especially Jackman and Caine.
1	martryn	97 _99th
Nolan brothers seem to pull out amazing movies. This is one of the greatest films of all time. The plot is a little silly toward the end, but you can't deny the characters and their motivations, and that's really what drives this movie.
1	BlueTesla	90 _89th
Fantastic movie.
1	kasiak	69 _27th
technically well made except the pathetic ending. I really do not like that they try to be realistic saying that there is no real magic and then they mix into the story "an invention" which is so unrealistic. the movie is like when somebody tells you stupid story nice way...
1	toffa_h	80 _83rd
This film has it all. It is a film that takes you on a journey without letting you drift into boredom for a single second. 2 hours of story-telling excellence.
1	maddog	78 _56th
spoilers indicated here You know, when you're trying to figure out magic tricks and illusions you usually look to the ordinary, so having a gigantic duplicating machine just cheapens everything. Not to mention having a twin is fine as an explanation, as long as what that twin does makes some true sense about one's true motivations. Too far-fetched.
1	Freder	90 _86th
A top-notch adaptation of what should have been an unfilmable novel. Many details from the book are changed and shifted about, but in spirit it remains faithful to the source material, with the result that novel and book complement each other. A real act of cinematic prestidigitation.
1	emtilt	73 _72nd
This would have been a great film instead of a good one if it didn't have the needless scenes explaining everything at the end. They're pointless and they undermine a central metaphor of the film.
1	barshki	100 _95th
Best movie of 2006, easily
1	jacobkosh	94 _96th
Chilly and distant - but it's meant to be that way. Not every movie is Miracle on 34th Street. The acting, direction and story combine into an absolutely unforgettable experience.
1	Bene	43 _14th
How a movie can pretend something THAT bloody obvious was a twist I'll never know...
1	dasgeordie	95 _95th
One of my all-time favourite film. A masterpiece.
1	lapierre520	100 _94th
Christopher Nolan makes damn good movies. This is excellent and the Third Act is incredible.
1	nandorizzi	85 _88th
Great movie, funny and full of about-turns. Distinction for the climate of rivalry created between two magicians and the good cast.
1	strangepants	80 _93rd
Excellent, right up to it's shocking finale.
1	bellamyr	89 _92nd
Unusual subject matter which challenges your perception and works on a number of different levels. Deep, dark and quirky. Strong supporting roles by Michael Caine and David Bowie. If you're looking for something different and low key but rewarding this is a great choice.
1	recklessmess	70 _47th
Wait, Danton was able to make a perfect clone of himself, but rather than use that single clone to effect his performance, he murders him after every show? Why not, one clone, and only murder him once he falls out of line, which he won't because HE'S YOU.
1	Wiche	92 _96th
Great plot. So unpredictable, you are constantly kept ignorant of everything going on in the movie. You could have figured it out by remembering what he always said about living the lie, and what his wife said (tpday you don't love me), but the way it's done was just too marvelous to find out. The counterpart of the illusionist. There they focus on the love story, but here it's all about the story and the magic. I love this movie which truly is magic!
1	Biedronski	91 _96th
Excellent story, with a great cast. What I thought was gonna be a movie set in old times about magicians ended up being more of a sci fi/fantasy than I thought.
1	Andreas	86 _99th
Great storytelling.
1	critickerkaw	65 _5th
Blah. With apologies to the excellent cast, I really disliked this film. The theme of revenge was very off-putting and it was so dark and dismal throughout; even the "mystery" and "magic" faded into the gloom. Much preferred "The Illusionist" where "magic" was used for love, not revenge.
1	purgatos	74 _58th
Very entertaining, full of little puzzles and an ending that I genuinely found surprising. Also David Bowie is in it.
1	pedro1309	100 _99th
brilliant
1	LynchMidget	60 _39th
This movie loves to flatter itself with how smart it thinks it is. Every twist is ridiculous, and yet, oddly enough, you see every twist coming. Nolan is better than this.
1	retina-scan	90 _98th
I am willing to fist fight those that did not like this movie.
1	dooooooley	91 _86th
A tragedy without aristoelean curve, a sci-fi taking place in the past, a mystery w/o conclusion, a fantasy of magic vs wizardry. The movie is a magic trick in itself. All axes of the film deceive the viewer, and blissfully fool us into wonderment revealing many unsettling paradoxes and realities of human life and suffering. It also forces us into a tug of war when trying to determine which characters are ultimately protagonists and antagonists. INCREDIBLE FILM with an unlimited replay value.
1	NateRiver	90 _88th
brilliant
1	AshWilliams	89 _87th
Smart, engaging, and perfect pace. Nolan is one of the best directors working today.
1	Paradigma	85 _94th
Second watch and it's still exciting and mysterious and magnificent.
1	ImThatDingo	32 _35th
A decent movie while you're viewing it. But the more you think about it, the more you realize it was kinda a waste of time. From what I recall, the ending had me asking whiskey tango foxtrot...
1	bluewasabii	90 _87th
i was hooked until the very end! and then the end came and i was kind of let down...but still great overall. i had to watch it a few times before i got all the clues and details
1	elmakebabi	70 _64th
Almost a rip off of The Duellists. It gets repetitive and boring and the plot twist at the end doesn't do it justice. I was naturally on Angier's side so that stupid and lazy trick at the end pissed me off. Hopefully it has breathtaking cinematography and rustic feeling that saves the film!
1	bbkd3b	86 _85th
Lots of atmoshpere in thsi one, and it is an entirely enjoyable watch. Nolan crafts such a great, mysterious picture you can't help but keep your eyes on the screen and wondering what that last, end-all-be-all trick will be. The tough part is to decide which magician you think is the protagonist in this movie. One things for sure: Bowie as Tesla? Sweet!
1	jugador	99 _99th
second best movie for me!
1	Councillor	54 _25th
Alright, apart from Bale not being on form and Bowie just being crap.
1	walkearth	75 _89th
The best Nolan film.
1	morton	99 _97th
this one is brilliant!!!!! no adjective would sufficient to describe this movie directed by nolan. a superb performance by christian bale and a rivetting climax makes this movie a must watch. i have watched it almost a dozen times
1	Ocelot	85 _94th
This is unabashed, all-out insanity. It's fantastic.
1	JacoIII	40 _54th
Stacks up to "The Illusionist" quite nicely but I find it loses me around the "BIG TWIST", which I find takes the "magic" out of the movie (see what I did there?).
1	ABUNCHOFCATS	84 _63rd
Good movie but people are way too gaga over it.
1	TiRYAKiLLER	95 _90th
Excellent... ;)
1	kcarro1	93 _89th
Really interesting and engrossing. Well cast and with nice plot twists. See once and then watch it again.
1	johnshaft	89 _86th
A witty and mysterious film with some great banter between the leads. The film moves unexpectedly toward its conclusion, and, despite being a bit overly confusing, still offers a complex, rewarding experience.
1	Giuseppe	83 _89th
I don't know how well it holds compared to the original novel, but as an individual movie it is a very good one. It may seem a bit confusing at times and a bit predictable at others, but in the end it all comes together, wonderfully explained in a great ending. Christian Bale confirms he's a great actor and Hugh Jackman puts on one of his best performances; Sir Michael Caine is as great as he's always been. Oh, and David Bowie man... he's Nikola Tesla! All in all another great Chris Nolan movie.
1	SirStuckey	90 _94th
Very fun and cool magic movie. Don't get to say that very often...or ever.
1	CaptTesticle	85 _87th
It doesn't teach you how to magic your way into Scarlett's pants, but it does show you how to make a shitload of brims.
1	Bown	82 _62nd
Nolan is simply a great storyteller. Despite the content, this never feels silly, not even for a second.
1	Sapta	96 _98th
Drama, mystery, storytelling at its best.
1	sjankis630	85 _90th
A very taut and thrilling whodunit with excellent acting. It still leaves me scratching my head after two viewings.
1	chemtrails	70 _71st
Cool wizard movie
1	FrederikA	60 _50th
I really want to love this movie, but it's just not happening. Mainly because it sets out to trick its audience like a brilliant magic trick, but anyone paying just a little bit attention will see all twists coming miles away. On the other hand, if it's interested in being a "serious" period drama about rivalling magicians, why the hell does it spend most of it's energy setting up the big scam, instead of nurturing interesting characters? It's a real shame, because the cast is great...
1	billkerwin	80 _42nd
Clever thriller that will keep you guessing.
1	illimani	86 _92nd
Terrific with twists and turns all through. Can you work it out before the end of the film?
1	mandy	7 _73rd
Complex story telling, keps you guessing and entertained all the way through. The 2 main characters don't elicit any sympathy but I still found the ending satisfactory.
1	Roberta	93 _98th
I watched it again a couple days ago. It is very very good. I love how well Christian Bale and Hugh Jackman "two superheroes" played these characters that are impossible to define. Sometimes they are good, sometimes bad, sometimes victims, sometimes they commit atrocities. The interesting thing is many people don't see "the prestige" coming, I did but even then it is very poignant to watch. Well done, Nolan!
1	AndersQQ	100 _96th
One of the greatest movies of all time.
1	Cilogy	100 _98th
Christopher Nolan is a master puzzle-maker. The Prestige is a rather dramatic film that makes it fun to follow the story. The whole film is essentially one magic trick.
1	Broodfath3r	90 _97th
was my favorite movie for a long time.
1	eozen81	90 _94th
IMO, One of the best Nolan's movies. Incredible script and final. Must to watch.
1	dunbar	86 _87th
For a movie covering the showmanship of magicians this one has a well grounded plotline and well-acted characters. A well made film.
1	hellboy76	85 _96th
Clever little films only downsides are Bowie, and the women.
1	Jaycer1	98 _91st
Wolverine and Batman duke it out as 19th-century magicians in Chris Nolan's best film to date (yes, even better than "Inception") with a twist that must have had M. NighT Shyamalan crying with envy. I love it, I absolutely love it: the excellent photography, the attention to details, the GREAT script, and David Bowie.
1	Noblet	78 _65th
It's emotionally lifeless and feels overly mechanical, but the interesting plot and strong presentation make up for it. I don't think it'll stick in my mind for long though.
1	johnnydark	99 _85th
One of the best films this century.
1	NothingsGood	85 _93rd
The Prestige offers a building descent into madness and the extreme lengths a person will go to for revenge. A first viewing will prove much less enjoyable as the viewer tries to solve the puzzle, which for the most part isn't very puzzling, repeat viewings highlight the insanity behind Hugh Jackman and Christian Bale and Nolan's mesmerizing portrayal of them. Watch for a stellar performance from Rebecca Hall in particular.
1	Jon	85 _90th
You won't know much about the main characters outside their obsession, but it has a great theme and you will see new things ever time you see it.
1	goremeat	80 _76th
Philosophy-of-self dilemmas. Can you copy/paste a human? Which are You? Both?
1	dmbbearcat	90 _87th
Christopher Nolan rarely, if ever, disappoints and this was no exception. Leaning on his usual cast of Michael Caine and Christian Bale, the acting and story both deliver and the ending caught me completely off-guard, but in a good way. It definitely has replay value, simply because it's fun trying to pick up clues that you missed the first time around.
1	TheDailyNathan	92 _96th
A masterpiece of the mystery genre - the narrative as it flips back and forth for each reveal is just perfect, and you see and understand the lens of each character due to the great acting performances. Unlike Nolan's previous mystery film Memento, repeated watching are worthwhile as well.
1	KingCauti	87 _89th
Personally, my favorite and most successful Nolan movie.
1	YoG	91 _91st
...if you like plot twists...!
1	WulfstanLee	90 _83rd
A typical Nolan film featuring protagonists whose obsessions destroy their relationships with their friends and family. Nolan is fascinated with the illusions/narratives (and that line is always ill-defined) people tell themselves to deal with the alienation they suffer from the world, and in this, The Prestige follows Batman Begins and looks forwards to Inception. I'm always happy with what Nolan gets out of his actors, and Bale and Jackman do not disappoint. Bowie's performance also stood out.
1	Leonardis	93 _76th
Every bit as competitive as it is entertaining. Bale and Jackman are both really good and most of the supporting cast is as well. Nolan's directing is as beautiful and technological as it usually as, and very visual. Nolan knows how to take a goreous score as well as original stories and that's what makes him such a good director. I would for sure recommend this one.
1	epedos	100 _94th
Magnificent!
1	sickbay	84 _84th
I loved this one. Nolan can't do wrong, and everyone is on their best performances here. Bonus: David Bowie as Tesla.
1	dkeeper	97 _93rd
One of my favorite directors, great story, great actors.
1	VN1X	90 _95th
A brilliant thriller that keeps you on the edge of your seat for the entire 130 minute run time. Get it on Blu-ray and watch in awe as the magic unfolds itself in front of your eyes.
1	Ryan Lueders (ReelRyan)	98 _97th
Making a film this good is no simple trick... [Full Review]
1	antidood1	85 _93rd
A masterfully directed mystery thriller with a beautiful setting. It's long, but never boring due to a pacing that's spot-on. Every twist is presented in such a masterful way that they will continue to amaze every time. This movie is jaw-droppingly beautiful and intriguing.
1	vedizzle	95 _97th
Excellent movie, it will definitely put your brain to work.
1	hotsake	60 _51st
Maybe its because I'm watching this in 2019, thirteen years after it came out but it really didn't do anything for me. The acting is solid but everything else is pretty meh. That and the fact that both my wife and I guess both twists well before the ending didn't help matters.
1	Bagarbjorne	89 _97th
Set in a great time, the end of the 19th century, when anything was possible with the help of Progress and Science, just at the junction between what is real and what isn't. A great tale with interesting twists
1	Ag0stoMesmer	5 _98th
Atmospheric and incredibly slick. Probably the film I've forced upon the most people
1	magdabag	92 _85th
Pretty magical not gonna lie.
1	sopachuco13	100 _95th
The Prestige is a magnificent movie that I have seen a couple of times now. Christopher Nolan once again brings a mind-bending movie to audiences with fantastic acting to boot. The story of these two magicians feels like the story of star-crossed lovers. Each time they come in contact with each other, they believe that they have figured something out, but it really just moves them closer to destruction. I'm still not sure which of the characters to root for which make subsequent viewings better.
1	QtheAlmighty	91 _97th
Wolverine and Batman being competing magicians manages to become a highly engrossing tale of loss and deceit and how far a man is willing to go that I find stylistically beautiful and endlessly entertaining.
1	hroy	95 _94th
Great script and a riveting story. Masterfully paced. Fascinating characters, Superbly acted. Also visually arresting. Although I haven't watched it many times, it seems to be a film that would lend itself well to repeat viewings. I anticipate seeing it again.
1	LookJabba...	8 _76th
The Prestige is another superb piece of filmmaking from Christopher Nolan. Christian Bale & Hugh Jackman both give stellar performances and the rivalry between the two magicians is incredibly engaging. Michael Caine is a worthy mention too and he gives his best performance in years. David Bowie is a fun inclusion also. The overall direction and cinematography is simply stunning. The script is superb and the story telling and endless twists, turns, clues and reveals are all perfectly executed.
1	TySimm	92 _95th
Christopher Nolan's adaptation is true thriller that is beautifully cast and executed. Full of twists and tons of suspense, Nolan and crew were able to craft a film carefully hides the truth right before you eyes. Bale and Jackman give wonderful performances as rivals and competitors who are always trying to one up each other. One of my all-time favorites.
1	ArKiTectOliv	90 _99th
La guerre entre Hugh Jackman et Christian Bale est intense. Et la fin magnifique.
1	Babs	86 _95th
Awesome plot, exciting, thrilling, awesome cast
1	kjetting	84 _79th
Lovely, intelligent and well told story and amazing actors. Unlike many movies with twist endings I can see this one many times.
1	alaa sparrow	96 _98th
" abracadabra "
1	omaar97	96 _86th
"Are you watching closely?"
1	qmiller32	95 _83rd
So much yes.
1	copulman	100 _99th
Probably the only movie I will ever give a perfect score. Absolutely love this movie and the acting is absolutely amazing. Great soundtrack, great story. David Bowie as Tesla was a perfect cast.
1	deathreaper	84 _64th
Not quite Memento, not quite Amadeus, but quite enough to satisfy and entertain anyone looking for either. Nolan certainly knows how to make good twists (sans the very last one, perhaps) and keep anyone watching engrossed in its web of betrayal. Gets a bit weaker going into the third act when it jumps a bit too far out of logic, but remains its composure until the end.
1	satsujin	10 _92nd
Really great plot of professional rivalry between two magicians.
1	pineapple	90 _83rd
My favorite of Christopher Nolan's. The plot is captivating and the amazing cast only serves to make it even more difficult to look away.
1	rickrly	10 _0th
Best movie ever
1	lukejmiller	100 _98th
Christian Bale is unforgettable in this film, the twists are great and the ending was a shock, even though all the clues were there. Brilliant.
1	joel-w-m	10 _97th
From an initial point of drama comes both the pre- and post-conflict timelines, which together expertly unravel in a most satisfying way a bevy of exciting secrets that reveal the stunning story behind the beginning intrigue. Driving forward this intricate plot is a tense dual-character study (both Jackman and Bale excel) set within the dark and unnerving world of professional magicians conveying the drastic-even deadly-effects of ambition and rivalry. A masterfully layered yet cohesive film.
1	Corbad	75 _67th
The central conceits and their specific executions were incredible, but the movie surrounding it was less impressive, led as it was by poorly written characters who presented as flat despite scattered effort.
1	IceStark7	90 _94th
A movie that you will need to watch twice for sure and the second time through will be just as enjoyable as the first!
1	luord	99 _99th
Nolan's best and one of the best and most competently made sci-fi thrillers, certainly my favorite. Also a beautiful period piece where every performance is pitch perfect.
1	Pruthveshwar	100 _85th
Probably the next best screenwriting from Nolan after Memento.
1	vaaponur	100 _79th
I hope they make the second movie. But, thinking again ; it's a perfect movie and they shouldn't risk it.

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Average Percentile 69.25% from 19965 Ratings