The New World

Though not exactly a huge blockbuster, The New World does have some redeeming attributes. First, the film locations are absolutely gorgeous. The plot may not be historically accurate in all accounts, but it does give a good overview of the history, with a Hollywood twist. The love story aspect of the film is intriguing, and I often found myself thinking back on Disney's Pocahontas, though this production far surpassed the cartoon. At times, the slow pace irritated me, but at the same time, it was also conducive to the mood of the story. It was just different to have such long "silent" moments in the film. Colin Farrell, Q'Orianka Kilcher, Christopher Plummer, Christian Bale, and August Schellenberg all play their parts very well. This film is rated PG-13.

The Illusionist

Similarities This film absolutely blew me away! In some ways it was similar to The Prestige. I don't want to give away too many plot points, but I'll say The Illusionist is about a young boy who falls in love with a princess and tries to run away with her. Years later, he becomes a magician, changes his name, and by chance comes across her again. Then comes a sudden twist in the plot. In some ways, this main character Eisenheim reminds me of Joseph Smith, Jr. The Short Story The Illusionist is based loosely on the short story Eisenheim the Illusionist, which can be found in The Barnum Museum, by Steven Millhauser. Both the film and the short story are exquisite ways to remove oneself from the world we live in and enter a realm of fantastical curiosity. The film is rated PG-13.