10 Movies & Shows Like The Science of Magic

Description: A period drama about a magician whose performances captivate audiences and challenge the status quo. The film's romantic and mysterious tone, combined with its portrayal of magic as both art and deception, aligns with the allure of stage magic.

Fact: The film is based on a short story by Steven Millhauser, 'Eisenheim the Illusionist.' Many of the tricks performed in the movie were achieved through practical effects rather than CGI.

Description: A comedy-drama about a young man who becomes the assistant to a fading mentalist. The film's affectionate portrayal of a magician's showmanship and the behind-the-scenes world of entertainment captures the charm and challenges of a performer's life.

Fact: The character of Buck Howard is loosely based on real-life mentalist The Amazing Kreskin. John Malkovich, who plays Buck Howard, performed many of the magic tricks himself without the use of special effects.

Description: A documentary that follows the life and career of Australian magician and escapologist Raymond Crowe. The film's intimate look at a magician's dedication to his craft and the personal sacrifices involved resonates with the passion behind magic performances.

Fact: Raymond Crowe is known for his unique 'hand shadowography' performances, where he creates intricate shadow puppets using only his hands. The documentary includes footage of Crowe's performances at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.

Description: A biographical drama about Harry Houdini, focusing on his later years and his quest to debunk spiritualists. The film's exploration of Houdini's legacy and the tension between magic and skepticism reflects the broader themes of illusion and reality.

Fact: The film's title refers to Houdini's famous escape acts, which often involved life-threatening stunts. Catherine Zeta-Jones, who plays a psychic in the movie, performed her own tarot card readings during filming.

Description: Explores the world of stage magic and illusion, delving into the rivalry between two magicians and the lengths they go to outdo each other. The film's intricate plot twists and themes of deception and sacrifice mirror the complexities of magic performances.

Fact: The film's nonlinear narrative was inspired by the structure of a magic trick, divided into three parts: the pledge, the turn, and the prestige. Christopher Nolan consulted with real magicians to ensure the authenticity of the tricks depicted.

Description: A comedy about two Las Vegas magicians whose friendship and careers are tested by a new, edgy street magician. The film's satirical take on the world of professional magic and its emphasis on the spectacle of performance align with the themes of showmanship and rivalry.

Fact: Steve Carell and Steve Buscemi learned real magic tricks for their roles, with some of their performances being genuine illusions. The film features cameos from real-life magicians like David Copperfield.

Description: Centers around a group of illusionists who perform heists during their shows, blending magic with crime. The film's focus on spectacle, audience manipulation, and the blurred line between reality and illusion captures the essence of theatrical magic.

Fact: The filmmakers hired professional magicians to design and perform the tricks seen in the movie, ensuring they were feasible in real life. The movie's title is a play on the magician's phrase 'Now you see me, now you don't.'

Description: A documentary about the life and career of James Randi, a magician and skeptic who exposed fraudulent psychics and faith healers. The film highlights the intersection of magic, science, and skepticism, showcasing how illusions can reveal deeper truths.

Fact: James Randi famously escaped from a straitjacket while suspended upside down over Niagara Falls. The documentary includes rare footage of Randi's performances and his debunking of paranormal claims.

Description: A thriller about a young magician who uses his skills to evade danger and solve mysteries. The film's blend of magic and suspense, along with its focus on the clever use of illusion, mirrors the strategic thinking behind magical performances.

Fact: The protagonist's escape acts were inspired by real-life magicians like Harry Houdini. The film's plot twists and turns are designed to keep the audience guessing, much like a magic trick.

Description: A documentary that explores the life of Orson Welles, a filmmaker who often used illusion and trickery in his work. The film's examination of Welles' creative genius and his ability to manipulate perception ties into the broader themes of magic and deception.

Fact: Orson Welles was an amateur magician and often performed tricks for friends and colleagues. The documentary includes rare footage of Welles' unfinished projects and his famous 'War of the Worlds' radio broadcast.