The story begins in a rapidly changing London at the turn of the century. At a time when magicians are idols and celebrities of the highest class, two young magicians set out to carve their own paths to fame. Flashy, sophisticated Robert Angier (HUGH JACKMAN) is a consummate entertainer, while the rough purist Alfred Borden (CHRISTIAN BALE) is a creative genius who lacks the panache to promote their magical ideas. Initially they are full of mutual admiration friends and associates. But when their biggest magic number ends with a complete flop, they are mortal enemies - everyone wants to overtake and defeat the other. The trick for trick, performance for performance, develop their fierce rivalry until it losing any brakes - even with the use of fantastic new power offered by the electricity and the scientific brilliance of Nikola Tesla - while the existence of all around hangs in the balance. The film, full of cleverly planned shocks and revelations, plunges the viewer into the fascinating world in which analyzed the deepest, darkest boundaries of faith, trust and human capabilities.