Magic (1978)

Excellent central idea is diluted by the drama elements which are introduced into the story. These were presumably an attempt to broaden the films appeal - something of a trend in American horror films of the late 1970's - but they ultimately prove detrimental.

Anthony Hopkins is a neurotic ventriloquist who finds himself increasingly coming under the influence of his dummy. He gives a convincing performance of a man losing his grip and realising he is powerless to stop it. His descent into madness provides the strongest horror elements of the film - scenes where Fats the dummy is in human-mode tend to be less plausible, although he does remain a sinister force throughout.

With Hopkins as the star and Richard Attenborough directing, 'Magic' has gained in reputation following their subsequent elevation to 'A' status. Certainly these two heavyweights bring enough touches of quality to raise the film above the mediocre, without ever giving it touches of real brilliance, despite one or two genuinely scary moments.

Film follows the theme seen in 'The Great Gabbo' (1929) and 'Devil Doll' (1964) - though most famously a ventriloquist's dummy featured in the classic British horror anthology 'Dead of Night' (1945).

Fmovies: I agree with the previous review entirely.

This is a film in the thriller tradition which separates the Alfred Hitchcocks from the pulp-makers. Anthony Hopkins is absolutely at the top of his form, being truly creepy rather than over-the-top vile (i.e., Hannibal).

At minimum I think the film should be regarded as a cult classic, if not a regular classic.

A very under-appreciated film, which should be available on DVD -- especially considering the ahem not-always-superior material that the industry has already made available!

Hollywood -- please give us a well-done DVD of this wonderful title!

Hopkins doesnt seem to mention Magic much. While it isnt the fastest pace movie around,it is creepy,thoroughly well acted,and I dare you to find a movie with better use of a harmonica/accordian in its soundtrack. But my all-time favorite thing about Magic is the puppet- "Fats". A truly overlooked classic character. FACT: Fats was designed by Disney employees,but Disney didnt want to be associated with such a dark film. Also,the films Production Designer went on to win several Oscars.

Magic fmovies. The best meals and the best movies have this in common: they're filling. Hungry? Watch Magic. Goldman's intensely suspenseful, spooky novel shows up intact on the screen, featuring Mr Hopkins in the psychotic lead. I love Hopkins enough to have several favorite performances (Guilty Conscience, Silence of the Lambs, Magic, A Married Man); while additionally loving Goldman (Princess Bride, Magic, Marathon Man, The Hot Rock, Misery) enough for you to understand where I'm coming from. Our sympathy for Hopkins' character, Corky, a ventriloquist, is forced early on, as we begin to realize the relationship Corky has with his dummy named "Fats". So, there are two main characters...if you will. The other characters just get in the way...oops...I give too much away...

Look for the following scenes especially: 1) the card game; and, 2) Corky must remain silent for 5 minutes...

This was one of the first films I ever saw that absolutely creeped me out as a kid; I hadn't seen it in years and just caught it recently on Bravo, and I have to say that it still gives me the willies! Anthony Hopkins's performance is nothing short of remarkable (he's a great Lechter, but really, his first Oscar nod SHOULD have been for this film); his scenes with Fats - and the voice he provides for the character - still make my flesh crawl. If you can get past the low production values, and hang in there past the first 15-20 minutes (plus if you can actually find this in a video store), you're in for a pretty frightening psychological ride. Hey, DVD distributors, somebody pick this one up (and get a commentary track with Hopkins, Attenborough and Ann-Margaret!)

I have passed on this film several times in the past, and people told me it was better than I thought, so I gave it a try. I was amazed how great it was, Anthony Hopkins has never had a character with more energy, this was before he started playing rather boring characters. Although the film does have some plot holes, and there are some unintentional laughs(especially the death of Ben Greene, I couldnt keep a straight face), but Anthony Hopkins is so good he overpowers all of the weaknesses of the film. The film made over 40 million dollars at the time of release, and thats quite a lot for 1978, Im surprised the rating isnt higher, and that it doesnt have more votes. My rating: 7.5 out of 10.