In an age where glossy computer-animated films with clever lines are produced almost every year, you would think it would be impossible for an old-fashioned film with barely any dialog and hand drawn animation to compete, but The Illusionist is definitely a contender.

From the main characters to the miscellaneous fringe players (my favorites: a tragically sad clown, a ventriloquist, and 3 full-of-energy acrobats), each one comes to life through facial expressions, gestures, and music. Even the illusionist’s persnickety rabbit was so developed I didn’t miss the usual in-jokes and pop culture references.

Set in 1959, a lonely older magician struggles to make a living performing at small European venues, eventually meeting a young girl in Scotland (Alice) who forms a close father-daughter bond with him—but there’s a complication: Alice believes he knows real magic. With every surprise he purchases for her, she comes to expect more until he’s forced to take odd jobs to help guard his secret.

Adapted from a script by comic actor Jacques Tati, Director Sylvain Chomet made sure every single frame is hauntingly beautiful. There aren’t any fancy plot twists or action-packed scenes. You’re basically just watching each day of this guy’s life, and yet, it’s totally magical. Tati’s script is full of beauty, humor and sadness, with a very European ending that will leave the viewer a little misty eyed.

The Illusionist is absolutely worthy of its Best Animated Feature Film nomination, and of your time. Don’t miss it while it’s playing in Seattle!