The Prestige: Synopsis

"We were two young men at the start of a great career.

Two young men devoted to an illusion.

Two young men who never intended to hurt anyone."

--Alfred Borden, THE PRESTIGE

From acclaimed filmmaker Christopher Nolan ("Memento," "Batman Begins") comes an innovative thriller woven out of the stuff of illusions. In this twisting, turning tale of urgent mystery, two Victorian-era magicians spark a powerful rivalry that builds into an escalating battle of tricks and an unquenchable thirst to uncover the other's trade secrets. As these two remarkable men pit daring against desire, showmanship against science and ambition against friendship, the results are dangerous, deadly and definitely deceptive.

Their rivalry is brought to life by two of today's most compelling screen stars: Tony Award winner Hugh Jackman, beloved on screen for his portrayal of the feral Wolverine in "X-Men" and its sequels, and Christian Bale, acclaimed for his intense performances including his recent turn as the Caped Crusader in "Batman Begins." Joining them is an exceptional cast of diverse characters portrayed by two-time Oscar® winner Michael Caine, Golden Globe® nominee Scarlett Johansson, newcomer Rebecca Hall, rising actress Piper Perabo, fantasy-film cult hero Andy Serkis and rock star David Bowie as the groundbreaking electrical genius Nikola Tesla.

It all begins in rapidly changing, turn-of-the-century London. At a time when magicians are idols and celebrities of the highest order, two young magicians set out to carve their own paths to fame. The flashy, sophisticated Robert Angier (HUGH JACKMAN) is a consummate entertainer, while the rough-edged purist Alfred Borden (CHRISTIAN BALE) is a creative genius who lacks the panache to showcase his magical ideas. They start out as admiring friends and partners. But when their biggest trick goes terribly awry, they become enemies for life -- each intent on outdoing and upending the other. Trick by trick, show by show, their ferocious competition builds until it knows no bounds, even utilizing the fantastical new powers of electricity and the scientific brilliance of Nikola Tesla -- while the lives of everyone around them hang in the balance. Rife with sleight-of-hand shocks and revelations, the film delves into a riveting world where the farthest, darkest edges of faith, trust and the possible are probed.