Magic is a psychological horror film that was released in 1978. The film was directed by Richard Attenborough and starred several notable actors of the time. One of the main actors in the film is Anthony Hopkins, who plays the lead role of Charles "Corky" Withers. Hopkins delivers a gripping performance as a ventriloquist who becomes possessed by his dummy, Fats. His portrayal of Corky's descent into madness is both terrifying and captivating. Another notable actor in the film is Ann-Margret, who plays the role of Peggy Ann Snow.
Renowned composer Jerry Goldsmith provides a score rippling with somber strings, and eerie, warbling, carnival numbers. Goldsmith’s soundtrack is decidedly understated. Nevertheless, it works brilliantly in conjunction with the cinematography, screenplay, and powerful acting performances for a technical tour de force.
Rather, the film creates an air of mystery through its clever masquerade; the relationship between Fats and Corky doesn t become apparent until the conclusion. Rather, the film creates an air of mystery through its clever masquerade; the relationship between Fats and Corky doesn t become apparent until the conclusion.
Another notable actor in the film is Ann-Margret, who plays the role of Peggy Ann Snow. As Corky's love interest, Ann-Margret delivers a heartfelt and emotional performance. She brings depth to her character, making the audience empathize with Peggy's struggles as she tries to navigate her relationship with Corky.
‘Magic’ (1978) a mesmerizing psychological thriller (review)
1978 psychological horror flick “Magic” stars Anthony Hopkins, Burgess Meredith, and Ann-Margret. The Richard Attenborough-directed horror film received a 1979 Edgar Award for Best Motion Picture Screenplay from the Mystery Writers of America, and earned Hopkins BAFTA and Golden Globe nominations for his lead role. With its superb screenplay, excellent cast, and fantastic mystery elements, 1978’s “Magic” remains an oft-overlooked horror romp.
Charles “Corky” Withers (Hopkins) is a failing professional magician. Mentor “Merlin” (E.J. Andre) advises Corky to assume a gimmick catering to show business. Flash forward a year, and Corky resurges as one of the most popular magic exhibitions. It’s his combined ventriloquist and magician act, centering on the crude-talking dummy Fats, which fostered such success.
Seasoned agent Ben Greene (Meredith) is prepared to set Corky up with his own television show. However, Corky refuses to sign the contract, and instead travels to the Catskills. Initially, it appears that Corky remains frightened of success. But after reuniting with his former high school crush Peggy Ann Snow (Margret-Ann), Corky begins to work his magic. Although Snow is married to estranged husband Duke (Ed Lauter), Corky woos her with a few card tricks.
“Magic” shines as a technical masterpiece. Hopking plays both Corky and Fats, and while his Corky is a bit stiff, Fats bubbles with personality. Additionally, Corky’s originally one-sided character radically changes as the story progresses. Over the course of the film, it’s clear that Corky is deranged.
Ann-Margret lends an inspired performance as Peggy Ann Snow. Margret plays a realistically indecisive and honest character. Her constant questioning of whether or not to leave Duke and pursue a relationship with Corky feels stikingly genuine. Peggy comes delightfully to life under Ann-Margret who plays her character with an air of charm and innocence. Similarly, Burgess Meredith is terrific as the believably energetic Ben Greene.
Renowned composer Jerry Goldsmith provides a score rippling with somber strings, and eerie, warbling, carnival numbers. Goldsmith’s soundtrack is decidedly understated. Nevertheless, it works brilliantly in conjunction with the cinematography, screenplay, and powerful acting performances for a technical tour de force.
What truly sets “Magic” apart is its sleight of hand. Repeatedly, “Magic” presents a slow boil which proceeds to defy expectations. Additionally, throughout “Magic” the viewer isn’t quite sure if there’s a supernatural element or merely madness. Its finale particularly reminds me of another 1978 horror filck, “The Legacy” starring Katherine Ross and Sam Elliott. Not because the endings are topically similar. Rather, it’s the shocking, unpredictible final scenes which parallel one another. Yet “Magic” concludes on a much bleaker note than “The Legacy.” “Magic” doesn’t pull its final trick until the third act, and there’s a massive payoff. The last shot is remarkably, and refreshingly, dark.
But “Magic,” for all its charm, does occasionally lose its charisma. As a horror film, it’s not particularly effective. That is, “Magic” lacks an atmosphere of fright. Rather, the film creates an air of mystery through its clever masquerade; the relationship between Fats and Corky doesn’t become apparent until the conclusion. Especially early on, Hopkins is a bit wooden. While it’s mostly cohesive, a few flashbacks are poorly placed, unnecessary, and create a disjointed flow.
Still, “Magic” manages to pull one over on the audience. I enjoyed the character progression, particularly from Hopkins’ Corky, and the endearing Peggy. With strong acting performances, taut writing, and a lovely twist of an ending, “Magic” is a truly underrated psychological horror flick.
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What truly sets “Magic” apart is its sleight of hand. Repeatedly, “Magic” presents a slow boil which proceeds to defy expectations. Additionally, throughout “Magic” the viewer isn’t quite sure if there’s a supernatural element or merely madness. Its finale particularly reminds me of another 1978 horror filck, “The Legacy” starring Katherine Ross and Sam Elliott. Not because the endings are topically similar. Rather, it’s the shocking, unpredictible final scenes which parallel one another. Yet “Magic” concludes on a much bleaker note than “The Legacy.” “Magic” doesn’t pull its final trick until the third act, and there’s a massive payoff. The last shot is remarkably, and refreshingly, dark.
The supporting cast of Magic also includes Burgess Meredith as Ben Greene, Corky's agent. Meredith brings his distinctive voice and presence to the role, adding a layer of complexity to the character. Additionally, Ed Lauter plays the role of Duke, Peggy's estranged husband. Lauter's performance is intense and intimidating, adding an element of danger to the story. Overall, the actors in Magic 1978 deliver strong performances that enhance the film's suspenseful and eerie atmosphere. Their talent and chemistry create a compelling narrative that keeps the audience engaged from start to finish..
Reviews for "Revisiting the Enigma: Examining the Influence of Magic 1978 Actors"
- Sarah - 1/5 - I found "Magic 1978 actors" to be utterly disappointing. The performances by the actors felt wooden and lacked any kind of emotion. It was almost as if they were just reading lines without any depth or connection to their characters. The casting choices were also questionable, as some of the actors seemed completely mismatched for their roles. Overall, I was left feeling completely underwhelmed and unimpressed with the talent on display in this production.
- John - 2/5 - I had high hopes for "Magic 1978 actors", but unfortunately, it fell short for me. The acting was far from convincing, and it was difficult to connect with any of the characters. The actors seemed to lack chemistry, resulting in awkward and unconvincing scenes. Furthermore, the dialogue felt forced and unnatural, making it hard to stay engaged with the story. It's a shame because the premise had potential, but the execution was lacking in talent and depth.
- Emily - 1/5 - I cannot believe the praise that "Magic 1978 actors" has received for their acting. The performances were incredibly weak and unimpressive. The actors seemed to be going through the motions without any real commitment or passion. It was a struggle to believe in their characters, and the lack of depth in their portrayals made it difficult to care about the story. Overall, I was deeply disappointed with the acting in this production and would not recommend it to anyone seeking a quality performance.