Magic in the Moonlight

Woody Allen's "Magic in the Moonlight" is a comedic meditation on just how far intelligent people will go to believe in something that defies logic. Set in late 1920s Europe, this gem is one of Allen's more opulent films, gorgeously showcasing the French Riviera.

Colin Firth magnificently channels his inner misanthrope as Stanley Crawford, a world-renowned illusionist who is asked to debunk a potential charlatan that may be deceiving a gullible American family living in the South of France. Excited by the prospect of revealing a new fraud, Stanley journeys to the estate to meet her. Alas, Sophie (Emma Stone) shows every sign of being the real thing, and Stanley finds himself transformed and uncomfortably bamboozled, having to do a rethink about accepting the otherworldly, maybe even the existence of God. Perhaps things aren't as rationally explained as he thought.

This is easily Firth's best role since "The King's Speech." He delights in Stanley's hateful nature and skepticism. The chemistry between Firth and Stone is pretty palpable, and Stone imbues Sophie with a warmth and desire that makes her completely irresistible to the soul as well as the heart.

The entire supporting cast is excellent, with Eileen Atkins a standout as Stanley's clever aunt.

The Blu-ray nicely preserves the 2:39:1 aspect ratio and showcases the gorgeous cinematography (by Darius Khondji). The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 is above par.

And, what's this? Extras on a Woody Blu-ray? Well, don't get too excited. "Behind the Magic" is an 11-minute featurette where Colin Firth, Jacki Weaver and Hamish Linklater (hilarious) discuss working with the master. Also included is a very brief "On the Red Carpet" piece and the original theatrical trailer.

"Magic in the Moonlight" may not veer into unchartered Allen territory, but it's an enchanting and entrancing film that asks very pertinent questions about the meaning of life (and whether there is any meaning to life). Allen, at 78, proves capable of smart, snappy dialogue and, when all is said and done, shows a tremendous desire to believe...in something other than the rational. He just wants some proof.

Blu-ray
$22.79
http://www.sonypictures.com/movies/magicinthemoonlight/