Posted: Tuesday 5 Aug 2008
Above: Harry (Pearce) can escape from anything
Certificate PG, Director Gillian Armstrong, Starring Catherine Zeta Jones, Guy Pearce, Timothy Spall, Saoirse Ronan, Jack Bailey
What’s it all about? Guy Pearce plays late, great escapologist Harry Houdini in this fictionalised account
of his trip to Edinburgh in the 20s.
He challenges psychics to prove their talent by naming his mother’s last words in a grand ceremony.
Attracted by the cash prize, local con artist and self-titled psychic Mary (Jones) accepts the challenge – then romance
and dilemmas follow.
What’s good? Catherine Zeta Jones is excellent as seductive Scottish performer Mary, who uses her feminine wiles and plenty of cunning to attract custom to her stage show.
That said, Atonement star Saoirse Ronan almost outshines her as her wily tomboy daughter Benji – this girl is one to watch.
The views of Edinburgh are glorious, and the story’s mildly compelling.
What’s bad? For once, Guy Pearce doesn’t stand out – sure, the character of Houdini is meant to be mysterious, but we don’t get under his skin at all.
OK! verdict: There isn’t enough suspense, and it could use more wit.