The Incredible Burt Wonderstone

Magic is something that makes the impossible seem possible in a fanciful performance of trickery and sleight of hand. Even though you know it’s fake, there’s a majestic appearance to the act that exhibits wonder and awe. It’s for that reason magician Burt Wonderstone (Steve Carell) got into the business in the first place.

Together with his partner Anton Marvelton (Steve Buscemi) the duo amazed crowds in Vegas. Times change, though, and a new street magician whose performance involves more danger than actual magic is beginning to make headlines and forces Burt and Anton apart.

The Incredible Burt Wonderstone is one of those films that looks like it could either be great or fail miserably with no room in-between. Thankfully it’s the former as Steve Carell, Steve Buscemi, and Jim Carrey put on hilarious performances. They’re all outrageous, over-the-top spectacles that simultaneously celebrate and mock magicians.

Carry portrays Steve Gray, a street magician who’s a mix between David Blaine and Criss Angel. He’s the kind of guy who craves attention and always has to one-up other magicians. He also doesn’t care for simple card tricks or disappearing acts and would rather hold his urine in for weeks or be a human piñata filled with candy. He’s the type of villain of sorts that you love to hate.

Burt and Anton are more traditional magicians, although in recent years Burt’s focus has been on fame and fortune over magic. He seems to have lost that initial spark that attracted him to magic in the first place. The chemistry between the two Steves is what drives the film. Buscemi is the more logical of the two, while Carell resorts to more childish actions. In the end, both manage to garner laughs.

Whether you love magic or just a smart and funny comedy, The Incredible Burt Wonderstone will leave you in a state of awe. It’s surprisingly good with a strong cast and well-placed humor. And who know, maybe it will inspire a kid to grow up and become a magician. Hey, it could happen.