Principal photography on Bull’s Eye Entertainment’s movie The Illusionist started at the beginning of April in Prague. The nine week shoot will also take place in such historical Czech towns as Dobříš, Konopiště, Tábor and Český Krumlov, all known for their splendid castles or richly decorated theater halls. The extraordinary architecture and preserved heritage of the Czech Republic offer the perfect locations for this stylish screen adaptation of Steven Millhauser’s story „Eisenheim The Illusionist“ set in early 1900’s Vienna.
Two-time Academy Award nominee Edward Norton heads the stellar cast in the lead role of Eisenheim, a magician who falls in love with a woman well above his social standing. When she becomes engaged to the crown prince, the magician uses his powers to win her back and undermine the stability of the royal house of Vienna. Golden Globe nominee Paul Giamatti and one of Hollywood´s most sought after actresses Jessica Biel star alongside in this romance drama directed by Neil Burger, also signed under the screenplay.
The international film production company Stillking Films hosts the production in the Czech Republic and Matthew Stillman and David Minkowski of Stillking Films act as co-producers. The crew, the majority of whom are from the local talent pool, includes Ondřej Nekvasil, the Emmy Award winning production designer whose extensive experience in Czech theatre and opera lend authenticity to the film’s elaborate sets.