Edward Norton Takes the Lead Role in "The Illusionist"

Jan. 2005 - 2005 looks like it will be a very busy year for Edward Norton. Norton's starring in "Down in the Valley," plays a supporting role in "Kingdom of Heaven" with Orlando Bloom, and is writing, producing, directing, and starring in "Motherless Brooklyn." And now Edward Norton's just signed on to star in the movie "The Illusionist," based on the short story "Eisenheim the Illusionist" by Steven Millhauser.

Set at the turn-of-the-century in Vienna, Edward Norton will play a magician who falls for a woman well above his own social status. Her engagement to a prince prompts the magician to cast a spell that will help him win her back.

According to Variety, "The Illusionist" will be directed by Neil Burger and produced by Cathy Schulman and Bob Yari from Bull's Eye Entertainment along with Michael London, Brian Koppelman and David Levien. Filming is expected to begin in April 2005 in Prague.

SOURCE: Variety