David Mitchell and Robert Webb, the stars of TV's Peep Show, are well cast as rival magicians in this British comedy, scripted by the show's writers Sam Bain and Jesse Armstrong. Harry (Mitchell) and Karl (Webb) are a once popular magic act who fell out when Harry discovered Karl's affair with his wife (the act's assistant) and accidentally killed her on stage. Four years later the pair are still not on speaking terms, until the lure of a large cash prize at an international magic contest brings them reluctantly back together. The familiar acts and corrupt officials - headed by Peter Capaldi, who clearly relishes the role - are expected but effective. While the story is predictable, there are some witty flashes in the script and Mitchell displays well-rounded comic timing. TV producer (and former magician) Andrew O'Connor's directorial debut has just enough pace to hold the interest, and there's some amusement to be had in the behind-the-scenes nastiness of the magic world.

A pair of rivaling stage magicians are forced to confront their falling out over a guillotine mishap when they compete in a magic competition.