The movie tells the story of a travelling "Magic show" troupe, led by old Dr Parnassus, who gambled his daughter Valentina with the Devil thousands of years ago, and what happens when a charming roguish Tony start romancing her, and the Devil wants to claim his prize.
The acting is very good, especially on the part of Christopher Plummer, who is truly terrific as Dr Parnassus, as well as Tom Waits as the Devil. This was Heath Ledger's last film, and he is good in his portray of the naughty, nervous and charming Tony. Also good is Andrew Garfield as the good-natured but jealous Anton, and Verne Troyer as the little bright Percy. Supermodel Lily Cole is just OK as the homey dreamer devoted daughter Valentina; not bad for for a first timer.
The parts of Tony behind the mirror, which had to be played by Johnny Depp, Jude Law and Colin Farrell after Hedger's death, are cleverly used and well performed. The two first actors really keep in tune with Ledger's performance, body language and even the inflexions of his voice. The story is extremely believable without Hedger as what happens inside the mirror is a fantasy and projection, not a reflection of reality.
The images, costumes, sets, colours, and dream-like images of the film are spectacular, full of creativity and artistry; they are an intrinsic part of the story, never an indulging showy element. Is the heart and soul of the movie what captivates the viewer, not the special effects. One feels immediately drawn by the magic mirror to a world of enthralling fantasy that the viewer would also like to experience.
I found the end of the movie a little bit rushed, and Dr Parnassus's past underdeveloped, and, well, everything a bit predictable.
This is a very enjoyable entertaining film with a good story, amazing creativity and decent acting. I would say it is a chick flick, in many ways, but I have found many men liking the movie, so it is also a blokey flick for some type of blokes.
