The Illusionist Review

Messages: The idea that you should commit random acts of kindness for others is encouraged in the movie. Both Tatischeff and Alice are empathetic and generous, even with the little they have themselves. Tatischeff is especially selfless, working other jobs on top of his magician work in order to feed and clothe Alice.

Role models: Tatischeff is a kind and loving man who just wants to do his sleight-of-hand shows for as many people as possible. Even in the face of commercial failure, he never succumbs to despair, and he manages to maintain his dignity. Alice is sweet and generous, but she's also overcome with longing for material gifts, like new shoes, coats, dresses, and expensive meals.

Violence: There are a couple of upsetting scenes involving stage performers. In one case, a mime is kicked and shoved by schoolboy bullies. Later, he's about to commit suicide by hanging himself, but he's stopped by an act of kindness. Young children will not understand the sense of sadness that surrounds many of the characters in the movie.

Sex: A couple walks arm-in-arm and seems to have feelings for each other. A random couple is shown kissing in the park. A man and a woman see each other from afar, grow infatuated with each other, and end up in a romantic relationship -- hugging, holding hands, and sharing a brief kiss.

Language: Most of the movie is wordless, but there's a use of "dang it."

Consumerism: Not an issue

Drinking, drugs and smoking: A character is shown getting drunk at a party -- he can't walk straight, bumps into things, and ends up causing a minor catastrophe at the reception. There are also valets passing out champagne. In Scotland, the magician works at a pub, where most of the patrons are in various stages of drunkenness. Adults also drink at restaurants; on one occasion, a ventriloquist is shown passing out at a table. One character is melancholy after a personal loss, and he drowns his sorrows at the pub.