The Prestige (2006)

Christopher Nolan's masterful thriller pits two rival magicians against each other in a deadly game of obsession, illusion, and sacrifice.

The Prestige - Movie Information

  • Original Title: The Prestige
  • Release Year: 2006
  • Directed by: Christopher Nolan
  • Type: Movie
  • Genres: Drama, Mystery, Sci-Fi
  • Age Rating (US): PG-13
  • Runtime: 2h 10m
  • Original Language: English
  • Spoken Languages: English
  • Release Date (Theatrical): October 19, 2006 (Singapore - PG), October 20, 2006 (United States - PG-13), October 20, 2006 (Canada - PG), November 10, 2006 (United Kingdom - 12), January 11, 2007 (Germany - 12), November 15, 2006 (France - TP), October 20, 2006 (India - U), November 16, 2006 (New Zealand - M), November 16, 2006 (Australia - M), November 2, 2006 (Brazil - 14), November 3, 2006 (Mexico - B-15), December 22, 2006 (Italy - T), January 12, 2007 (Spain - 18), November 2, 2006 (South Korea - 15)
  • Alternative Titles: El Truco Final (CO), Prestiż (PL), The Prestige (KR), Ảo Thuật Gia Đấu Trí (VN), O Terceiro Passo (PT), حیثیت (IR), O Grande Truque (BR), El Truco Final (El Prestigio) (ES)
  • Production Companies: Warner Bros. Pictures, Touchstone Pictures, Newmarket Films, Syncopy
  • Production Countries: United Kingdom, United States of America

The Prestige - Plot

A mysterious story of two magicians whose intense rivalry leads them on a life-long battle for supremacy -- full of obsession, deceit and jealousy with dangerous and deadly consequences.

The Prestige - Trailer

Watch the official trailer and see the rivalry between two obsessed magicians unfold:

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The Prestige - Cast & Crew

Director(s)

  • Christopher Nolan

Main Cast

  • Hugh Jackman
  • Christian Bale
  • Michael Caine
  • Piper Perabo
  • Rebecca Hall
  • Scarlett Johansson
  • Samantha Mahurin
  • David Bowie
  • Andy Serkis
  • Daniel Davis

Writers

  • Jonathan Nolan
  • Christopher Nolan

Producers

  • Aaron Ryder
  • Emma Thomas
  • Christopher Nolan

The Prestige - FAQs

What is the ending of The Prestige explained?

The ending reveals that Alfred Borden is actually twin brothers who shared one life to perfect their magic act, while Robert Angier used Tesla's cloning machine to duplicate himself for his trick, drowning each clone nightly. The final scene confirms Angier's horrifying sacrifice and Borden's survival to reclaim his identity.

Where can you stream or watch The Prestige?

The Prestige is available to rent or buy on Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies, YouTube, and Fandango At Home. It is not currently included in a major subscription streaming library in the US, so digital rental or purchase is the most accessible option.

Is The Prestige based on a true story?

The Prestige is not based on a true story. It is adapted from Christopher Priest's 1995 novel of the same name. However, the film features a fictionalized version of real inventor Nikola Tesla, played by David Bowie, lending a layer of historical atmosphere to the story.

Who are the main actors in The Prestige?

The Prestige stars Hugh Jackman as Robert Angier and Christian Bale as Alfred Borden, the two rival magicians at the heart of the story. The supporting cast includes Michael Caine, Scarlett Johansson, Rebecca Hall, Piper Perabo, and David Bowie as Nikola Tesla.

What is The Prestige about?

The Prestige follows two Victorian-era magicians whose professional rivalry spirals into a dangerous obsession. Fueled by jealousy, deceit, and a relentless hunger for supremacy, each man pushes the boundaries of illusion — and morality — with devastating consequences for themselves and everyone around them.

Who directed The Prestige and when was it released?

The Prestige was directed by Christopher Nolan and released on October 20, 2006, in the United States. Nolan co-wrote the screenplay with his brother Jonathan Nolan, adapting Christopher Priest's acclaimed 1995 novel of the same name.

What is the age rating and runtime of The Prestige?

The Prestige is rated PG-13 in the United States for violence and disturbing themes. The film runs approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes (130 minutes), making it a substantial but tightly constructed thriller that rewards patient, attentive viewing.

Did The Prestige win any awards or receive critical acclaim?

The Prestige earned two Academy Award nominations for Best Cinematography (Wally Pfister) and Best Art Direction. Critics praised it as one of Nolan's most intricate works, and it holds a strong approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, celebrated for its layered storytelling and exceptional performances.

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