Directed by Stephen Shimek and written by Nick Pollack, Jerome Reygner-Kalfon, and Sebastien Semon, The Magician’s Raincoat is a family fantasy film. It starts in 1938, as Augustus Semprini (Cory Phillips) is getting evicted from his theater. Luckily, a sold-out crowd is awaiting the magician’s next show. During it, he selects Gertrude (Ashton Leigh) to volunteer for a trick, and when she gets on stage, he knicks a brooch from her. This is a mistake, as she’s a real-life witch who, after realizing the jewelry is missing, curses Augustus to live in his raincoat.
Cut to 86 years later, 2024. Siblings Jack (Jake Alexander Williams), Olivia (Taylor Bedford), and Charlie (Bryson Robinson) are at their grandmother’s so their mom (Lisa Fenimore) can get money to keep their house. While searching the attic, the kids find the very same yellow raincoat cursed all those years ago. When Jack, Olivia, or Charlie puts on the coat, their appearance changes to that of Augustus. Soon, the family members learn of the magician’s past and must find a way to release him from the magic binding him to the clothing item. Unfortunately, standing in their way is Olivia’s teacher, Mrs. Weaver (Laura Shatkus), who seeks the magical brooch for her own means.
“…the family members learn of the magician’s past and must find a way to release him…”
The Magician’s Raincoat is shockingly great through and through. Family-centric fantasy adventures have quite a showing in the indie realm. As with everything, some of those titles are good (The Secret Kingdom), others are bad (Lebou), and a few are meh (Emily And The Magical Journey). But this stands above the rest, sitting right next to The Keepers Of The 5 Kingdoms as what the other titles in the genre should aspire to be. The effects that bring the various spells to life are colorful and eye-catching. The pacing is excellent, with just enough exposition, character beats, and narrative momentum, so nothing feels forsaken or overblown.
Phillips has to do a lot of physical maneuvering throughout the 90-minute runtime. It’s an impressive performance that is zany and dramatic. Shatkus makes her character’s rough demeanor a creepy trait. Fenimore makes the more dramatic bits palpable. The three child actors are also quite good and make for believable siblings. Williams is solid as the oldest, looking out for the other. Bedford’s frustration over being more intelligent than everyone else is believable. Robinson’s comedic timing is impeccable.
The Magician’s Raincoat is a terrific surprise. The direction is spot-on, the acting is spectacular, and the plot is tons of fun. This is essential family viewing.
"…shockingly great..."
