The Magician of Lublin

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The Magician of Lublin ★½ 1979 (R)

Based on an unusual story by Issac Bashevis Singer. Follows the exploits of a magician/con man in turn-of-the century Poland whose personal flaws kill his career, until a chance emerges for one last trick. A good example of movie not as good as book; this rendering is superficial, badly acted and unsatisfying. Made soon after Singer won the Nobel Prize for literature in 1978. 105m/C VHS . Alan Arkin, Valerie Perrine, Louise Fletcher, Lou Jacobi, Shelley Winters, Elspeth March, Lisa Whelchel; D: Menahem Golan; M: Maurice Jarre.