Before this film, the only experience of Nolan's work I had had was "Batman Begins." When I saw that movie, I was blown away by the cinematography, the action, the acting, everything.
But this movie did more than that. It shocked me to the core.
Although it may be rather strict, most of the movies that I watch (and love) are action packed. To be honest, I have been more exposed to books than I have to cinema. This movie (and "The Blind Side") were the only dramas that have truly impressed me.
The plot for this film is that two magicians, previously friends, become rivals after the woman they both love dies in a magic trick gone wrong. This is the prelude for the obsession that follows. Both magicians become bitter rivals and use the people in their lives to discover each other's secrets. Without revealing any spoilers, I can safely say that the ending for this movie, although it is confusing to no end, was the best ending to any movie I have ever see in my life.
Unfortunately, this movie will not appeal to everyone, as it is dark (darker than most, if not all, of Tim Burton's films), and it can be very confusing at times if the subtitles are not enabled.
But for people, like me, who want movies and/or books that will make you think, than this is the one you have been waiting for.
P.S. I cannot wait for "Inception!"