I love an earnest and well-made film. Even if a film seems dated or not as funny as it should be, I will be lenient on it if I feel like the director and cast have nothing but the best intentions. 

“The Incredible Burt Wonderstone” fulfills all the expectations I had. Steve Carell would play a semi-pathetic character and Jim Carey would go completely over the top like a mad scientist and make funny faces. 

Unfortunately, all the film really amounts to is the equivalent of going to Outback Steakhouse. You know that it is far from the best, but it is affordable and completely edible, so why fuss over it not being wet-aged? 

If you go in expecting to laugh, you absolutely will. If you go in wanting a magician-based comedy that fully explores the gut-wrenching nature of the entertainment business in Las Vegas, well then you get a glimpse of it, but nothing of consequence. 

I will say this: the supporting cast is all top-notch and deserve much more praise and attention, but unfortunately the lion’s share of the film’s success or failure will be attributed to Carell and Carey. 

This movie is far from a magical experience, but if, like me, you enjoy the talents involved, you will not be all that disappointed in the movie.