The 8 Best Movies About Magicians, According to Actual Magicians
Lights, camera, magic! Countless movies have explored the fascinating world of magicians, but which films about magic truly capture the essence of the craft? Which films not only stand as great pieces of cinema but also excel at portraying the intricacies of magic? To find the best magic movies, we turned to our team of professional magicians at See Magic Live, who are uniquely qualified to offer their expert illusionist insights.
In this blog post, we delve into 8 movies about magic and magicians that have impressed and resonated with our own magicians, offering a rare glimpse into the magician movies that both entertain and authentically represent their beloved craft.
These chosen movies about magicians and illusionists hold a special place in the hearts and minds of our magicians. From the riveting rivalry and illusionary ingenuity of The Prestige to the introspective journey of self-discovery in In & Of Itself, these films go beyond mere entertainment, seamlessly blending captivating storytelling with an authentic portrayal of the art of the magic trick.
Join us as we unveil the top movies related to magic shows and magicians, that have earned the highest accolades from our team of master magicians, as meaningful introductions about the world of magic and illusion.
Before we continue this blog post, if you’d like to invite a great magician to one of your real-life, off-screen events in the U.S., contact us at See Magic Live to request a magician.
The Best Films About Magic and Magicians
The Prestige - Riveting Rivalry and Illusionary Ingenuity
Set in 1890s London, The Prestige spins an intense narrative of two magicians entangled in a fierce rivalry and is the most popular of the films about magicians within our See Magic Live team. The relentless pursuit of these rival magicians for supremacy leads them down a path where illusions become indistinguishable from reality, with startling consequences. The pair of rivaling stage magicians is played by Hugh Jackman and Christian Bale.
The Prestige follows two young, rival magicians in 1900s London, Alfred Borden and Robert Angier. They start out as friends but their opposing philosophies drive them apart as they compete to create ever more jaw-dropping illusions with the best magic.
Obsession takes hold when Borden unveils an incredible new trick involving a robotic-like automaton that Angier becomes desperate to duplicate. He turns to the ingenious Nikola Tesla to construct a machine that will enable him to achieve the same baffling effect.
As the magicians try to outdo one another, sabotaging each other's acts, the stakes become dangerously high. Their fierce rivalry leads both men down an obsessive path to attain the ultimate illusion, known as the prestige. Their quest comes at a tremendous cost.
The film also explores the price of obsession and the lengths people will go to for their art.
Among our magicians, The Prestige emerges as a popular choice. Daniel Giandoni lauds it for its "incredible performances and captivating showcase of a fascinating part of ancient history,” and Noah Fay called it a “top-tier magic movie.”
Ari Novick appreciates its layered complexity, pointing out that "Even something as seemingly simple as a bird vanishing and reappearing will be seen in a new light the second time." He also mentions how the film "explores how technology, including old-school, new, and fictitious, inspires magicians to create new acts," resonating with the magic world's innovative spirit. For Ari, The Prestige becomes a poignant exploration of a magician's devotion to his art, as evidenced by the character of Chung Ling Soo, a stage magician who, like the film's protagonists, surrendered his identity to his craft.
Echoing this sentiment, Eric Yuhasz loves how "the amazing twist at the end was created by the usage of misdirection throughout the movie," which reflects the very essence of magic itself.
Presto - Magic, Mischief, and Mirth
Pixar's short film Presto is a delightful tale of a magician and his unruly rabbit who turns the tables on his master for a piece of carrot, leading to hilarious consequences. This playful escapade reminds us that magic can be found in laughter and surprises.
Terry Ward, who himself has mystified millions of guests at Walt Disney World Resort, cherishes Presto for its ability to "bring the kid in you alive," illustrating the joy and lightheartedness inherent in magic.
Nightmare Alley - A Dark Descent into Ambition and Illusion
Nightmare Alley explores the story of a cunning carnival worker who rises to fame as a mentalist, only to lose himself in a web of deceit and ambition. This unsettling tale presents a stark perspective on the darker side of magic and mentalism.
Sebastian Gerhardt admires Nightmare Alley for its authenticity, depth, and impactful storytelling. He says, "For me, Nightmare Alley takes the cake because of how real it feels. It shows the work and sacrifice that goes into becoming a magician/mentalist, but also how having an ego and pursuing this craft to be 'above' other people ends terribly. It was the first Guillermo Del Toro movie I watched and it was shot so beautifully with lots of foreshadowing." The casting of Bradley Cooper as a mentalist was the icing on the cake for Sebastian. He also appreciated the dark but thought-provoking ending that offered a contrast to The Prestige.
Magnolia - Mystery, Slowly Unraveled
One film that stands out is an unexpected choice: Magnolia. Directed by Paul Thomas Anderson and featuring a star-studded cast, this cinematic gem may not be about magicians in the traditional sense, but it possesses a magical quality that resonates with See Magic Live founder, Kostya Kimlat. According to Kostya, "The film begins with this amazing, surreal, and magically unbelievable sequence with the most recognizable voice, that of legendary magician, Ricky Jay. It captures your interest from the start, and it weaves fascinating tales throughout." For Kostya, Magnolia's ability to connect characters' lives in surprising and meaningful ways, intertwined with moments that resemble the flow of a great magic show, makes it a standout choice.
While Magnolia may not rely on conventional tricks, Kostya finds inspiration in its structure and the deliberate unfolding of its narrative. It has influenced his approach to structuring his own shows, aiming to weave meaning into the magic and take the audience on a purposeful journey. "Nothing was accidental," Kostya remarks. This unconventional choice reminds magicians that every element of a performance, even beyond the tricks themselves, can contribute to a captivating experience. It challenges them to consider the intentional construction of their shows and the profound impact that storytelling can have on their craft.
The Great Buck Howard - Showbiz, Stardom, and Stage Magic
The Great Buck Howard stars John Malkovich as the titular Buck Howard, a once-famous mentalist and magician now resigned to smaller venues on his comeback tour. Colin Hanks plays Troy, a law school dropout who becomes Buck's road manager, getting a behind-the-scenes look at the magic industry's highs and lows. This comedic drama chronicles Buck's attempts to revive his stagnant act with help from his young apprentice Troy, providing an insightful glimpse into the lives of touring performers. The film is inspired by mentalist The Amazing Kreskin, with Malkovich expertly capturing the real-life magician's eccentric mannerisms. With humor and heart, The Great Buck Howard shows the dedication and passion required to sustain a magic career.
Jimmy Ichihana finds a deep connection with The Great Buck Howard, stating, "I watched The Great Buck Howard and then shortly afterward, saw Kreskin perform live. John Malkovich nailed Kreskin's character. A fun movie about a real character."
In & Of Itself - A Journey of Identity and Perception
In & Of Itself, featuring magician Derek DelGaudio, is a unique and deeply personal film that explores concepts of identity and human connection through magic. Through intimate illusions and stories, DelGaudio mystifies the audience while opening up about his own personal journey. The film documents his one-man Off-Broadway show of the same name, directed by Frank Oz. As DelGaudio performs imaginative tricks and interacts with audience members, he reflects on the masks we wear and our search for meaning. It's a transformative cinematic experience that pushes the boundaries of what a magic performance can be.
Keith Kong appreciates In & Of Itself for its focus on "self-reflection, identity, and human connection."
Powder and Phenomenon - Unveiling the Extraordinary
Powder and Phenomenon both center around characters with exceptional abilities, navigating a world that struggles to understand their powers. While these films are not about magicians or mindreaders in the entertainment sense, these films probe the mysteries of the mind and psychic phenomena, invoking both awe and introspection.
Powder tells the story of an albino teen, played by Sean Patrick Flanery, with incredible intellectual and lightning-harnessing powers who hopes to find connections in the world. Phenomenon stars John Travolta as a small-town mechanic who inexplicably develops genius IQ and telekinetic powers after witnessing a bright flash in the sky.
Meraux Dantes, a professional mentalist, connects with these films on a deep level, as they resonate with his work and his journey. They left him inspired growing up, fueling his passion for mentalism and the exploration of the human psyche.
25 Honorable Mentions: More Movies About Magic and Magicians
In addition to the famous magician movies we highlighted, there are many other good magician movies worth mentioning that depict magicians and their magic on the big screen. These additional magician films depict characters who compete in magic competitions, confront challenges, use magic wands, or wield supernatural powers. While not the best films about magicians according to our See Magic Live team, this movies list includes box office hits, with some of the best magician movies.
So without further ado, here are 25 honorable mentions of noteworthy magician films that showcase magicians in movies.
Now You See Me (2013): A fast-paced heist movie following a team of four magicians called the Four Horsemen, played by Jesse Eisenberg, Woody Harrelson, Isla Fisher, and Dave Franco, who pull off ingenious and seemingly impossible heists during sold-out magic shows.
The Illusionist (2006): Eisenheim, a French illusionist in 1900s Vienna, falls for a woman engaged to Crown Prince Leopold, starring Edward Norton, Paul Giamatti, Jessica Biel, and Rufus Sewell.
Oz the Great and Powerful (2013): This film follows a magician who is swept to Oz and embroiled in a struggle for power.
The Incredible Burt Wonderstone (2013): Las Vegas magician tries to revive stale act with an edgy rival, starring Steve Carell and Jim Carrey.
Houdini (1953): Biopic of legendary magician and escape artist Harry Houdini, starring Tony Curtis and Janet Leigh.
The Amazing Johnathan Documentary (2019): Doc on peculiar magician John Szeles facing a terminal diagnosis.
Make Believe (2010): The documentary follows six young magicians who compete in a magic competition for teens on the international level.
Deceptive Practice: The Mysteries and Mentors of Ricky Jay (2012) - Profile of acclaimed sleight-of-hand artist Ricky Jay.
Magic Camp (2020): A family comedy film about a magician helping kids at a magic camp.
Magic Camp (2012): A documentary following aspiring young magicians attending Tannen's magic camp.
The Escape Artist (1982): Illusionist uses stage magic skills to escape deadly situations.
Magic (1978): This psychological thriller stars Anthony Hopkins as a ventriloquist who becomes increasingly unhinged.
Now You See It... (2005): A Disney Channel Original Movie about a young aspiring magician.
Sleight (2016): This drama/sci-fi movie follows a young street magician who turns to using his magic to save his sister, starring Jacob Latimore.
The Magician (1958): Directed by Ingmar Bergman, this film explores the life and trials of a traveling magician.
Death Defying Acts (2007): A fictionalized account of Houdini's exploits in Edinburgh, it stars Guy Pearce and Catherine Zeta-Jones.
FairyTale: A True Story (1997): While not about magicians per se, it does cover the topic of spiritualism and features escape artist Harry Houdini as a character.
The Magicians (2000): A British dark comedy film showing magicians competing in a magic competition where their sleight-of-hand skills and showmanship are pushed to the extreme.
Dealt (2017): This documentary delves into the life of Richard Turner, a renowned card magician who astounds audiences with his sleight of hand magic, despite being legally blind.
Magic in the Moonlight (2014): Directed by Woody Allen, this film is set in the 1920s and follows a skeptical magician who is brought in to debunk a young woman who claims to be a medium, but ends up falling for her instead.
An Honest Liar (2014): This is a documentary about the life and career of the celebrated magician turned scientific skeptic of the paranormal, James Randi.
A Trip to the Moon (Le Voyage dans la Lune) (1902): Directed by Georges Méliès, a pioneering filmmaker and magician, who is well-known for his groundbreaking special effects and narrative storytelling in early cinema.
The Geisha Boy (1958): In this comedy, Jerry Lewis stars as a down-on-his-luck magician on a USO tour in Japan and Korea.
Next (2007): Starring Nicolas Cage, a veteran Vegas magician tries to thwart a terrorist attack because he is able to see into the future, this film blends elements of magic and science fiction
The Mad Magician (1954): A thriller featuring Vincent Price as a magician who seeks revenge against his deceitful manager.
Bring the Magic of Movie Magicians To Your Real-Life Event
The See Magic Live Team of Magicians
Each of these films offers a unique perspective into the world of magic, viewed through the eyes of the real-world conjurors at See Magic Live. And just as these movies brought magic into the hearts and minds of our magicians, we too can bring a touch of magic into your life.
Whether it's a private party, corporate event, or any important gathering, our magicians are ready to enchant your guests.
So why wait? Contact us at See Magic Live today and let the magic begin!
