Magic in the Moonlight

In Woody Allen’s take on the story of Houdini exposing charlatan mediums, Colin Firth plays an exotic magician who’s enlisted to debunk the tactics of an extraordinary spiritualist (Emma Stone). It is suspected that the spiritualist is possibly swindling a wealthy family. The magician, however, is quickly amazed by the spiritualist’s abilities see into his own life.

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The mostly tame Magic has about 12 instances of mild profanity and religiousexclamations that are edited by ClearPlay, including a reference to sodomy. Perhaps more problematic for families is a character’s continued certainty that there is no God or after life. Because of the film’s existential feel, it’s most suitable for teens and above.

“Does Allen pull a rabbit out of his hat with this Magic?...”

Though it doesn’t measure up to the best of the Allen canon, Magic in the Moonlight has moments of charm. Firth and Stone are always a joy, and the period design and lush photography add up to a beautiful look. Some of the conflict disappears too easily, however, and it’s not always believable. Overall the movie is not as magical as I would’ve hoped – more “slight” of hand than“sleight.”

Marty Nabhan, ClearPlay Escape Artist

Rated PG-13 for a brief suggestive comment, and smoking throughout; 97 mins; Directed by Woody Allen