Counter Culture

Directed by: Christopher Nolan

MPAA Rating: PG-13 for violence and disturbing images

Running Time: 128 minutesThis is Christopher Nolan’s fifth feature film. Young magicians Rupert Angier (Hugh Jackman) and Alfred Borden (Christian Bale) become rivals after an accident during an underwater trick. Robert’s wife, Julia (Piper Perabo), is the magician’s assistant. Julia agrees to be tied with the preferred knot by Alfred. Even though the knot is difficult to untie while she is submerged in a tank, she insists she can handle it. Julia dies.

This then becomes a story about obsession and jealously. They not only try to one-up each other’s tricks, but they also try to sabotage one another. In trying to ruin one another they ruin virtually everyone around them, including themselves. It is a dark psychology.

There are many twists and surprises and this film keeps you guessing right to the end. Intriguing and very watchable.It is certainly a film that you think about afterward and might want to watch more than once.

Special mention of David Bowie who plays scientist Nikola Tesla in a small but vital role.

Credits:

Director: Christopher Nolan

Screenwriters: Jonathan Nolan, Christopher Nolan

Based on the novel by: Christopher Priest

Producers: Emma Thomas, Aaron Ryder, Christopher Nolan

Executive producers: Charles J.D. Schlissel, Chris J. Ball, William Tyrer, Valerie Dean

Director of photography: Wally Pfister

Production designer: Nathan Crowley

Music: David Julyan

Costume designer: Joan Bergin

Editor: Lee SmithCast:

Robert Angier: Hugh Jackman

Alfred Borden: Christian Bale

Cutter: Michael Caine

Julia: Piper Perabo

Sarah: Rebecca Hall

Olivia: Scarlett Johansson

Mr. Alley: Andy Serkis

Nikola Tesla: David Bowie