Houdini (1953)

Before he became a legendary illusionist, Harry Houdini (Tony Curtis) was a mere sideshow when he first met Bess (Janet Leigh). But with extraordinary charisma, a natural skill, and unrelenting self-promotion, Houdini would slowly rise to fame with his beautiful ever faithful now wife and assistant. No matter Houdini's obsession in capturing audiences worldwide, Bess is nearby. As each illusion trumps the previous, Houdini's dance with death becomes even more daring.

This classic biopic from director George Marshall is a monument to Technicolor. Combined with the onscreen pairing of Curtis and Leigh and taut reenactments of Houdini's stunts, the film is exciting.

Tony Curtis is mesmerizing as the master escape artist. Aloof, brash, slightly obnoxious, Curtis is fun to watch. Janet Leigh, as Bess, dotes on Houdini/Curtis. It's cute, really--almost disgustingly so.

Houdini is dazzling. Director Marsall weaves dramatic sequences that are filled with suspense among lulls of romance and naysayers. But let's get back to the real reason Houdini is so dazzling--the color!! Each frame dances onscreen thanks to extravagant production values. Costuming and wonderful detail accent the couple beautifully.

As I see it, Houdini is an entertaining treat. Don't expect accuracy. Think romanticism and you'll enjoy the film for what it is: good fun.