Common Sense Media Review
By Danny Brogan
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Magicians learn importance of family in kid-friendly comedy.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 8+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
L'apprendista mago (Het geheim)
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
In L'APPRENDISTA MAGO, 8-year-old Ben (Thor Braun) is inspired to become an illusionist after seeing his hero, Hans Smid (Daan Schuurmans), perform. Together with his unemployed father, Koos (Theo Maassen), and new girl at school Sylvie (Java Siegertsz), the trio form a magic act. But when Sylvie accidentally disappears during a routine, Ben and Koos come under fire. With his parents' marriage unraveling, can Ben and his father figure out where Sylvie is, before it's too late?
Is It Any Good?
There are enough tricks and laughs in this family-friendly movie to deserve your time. Younger viewers will enjoy rabbits being pulled out of hats, disappearing assistants (all the tricks were overseen by a real-life magician), and the odd bit of slapstick. L'apprendista mago never takes itself too seriously -- even when touching on issues such as divorce and abandonment -- but audiences will need to ignore some glaring plot holes. For example, how are Ben and Koos allowed to continue performing after Sylvie's disappearance? But if you can overcome these, you'll be swept along.
Braun's performance as Ben is noteworthy, and Maassen's Koos provides enough laughs. Their characters' father-son relationship is at the heart of the movie, so it's a relief that the onscreen chemistry between them works. L'apprendista mago is a fun, if not magical, ride.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the magic in L'apprendista mago. Do you believe in magic? Why do you think we have a fascination with magic and illusions?
What's the relationship like between Sylvie and her mother? Why does Sylvie do what she does? Is Sylvie's mother really putting work before family, or are there other reasons why she doesn't go watch Sylvie perform?
How does the movie portray divorce? Is it realistic?
Movie Details
- In theaters : December 1, 2010
- On DVD or streaming : April 1, 2016
- Cast : Thor Braun , Theo Maassen , Chantal Janzen
- Director : Joram Lürsen
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : IDTV Film
- Genre : Family and Kids
- Topics : Fantasy ( Magic )
- Run time : 90 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : September 30, 2025
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