"Now You See Me" Movie Review
Magic and magicians have always been an interest for me, so when I saw that a caper film about magicians was being made, I understandably became excited. Then, the cast was revealed: Woody Harrelson, Jesse Eisenberg, Dave Franco, Melanie Laurent, Mark Ruffalo, Isla Fisher, Morgan Freeman, and Michael Caine. If the cast alone doesn't get you excited about this film, nothing will.
The story begins by showing us each of the four magicians at work, and each one is being watched carefully by a mysterious person in a hood. Each one is given a special tarot card which leads them to the same place at the same time. After a short meet and greet, they find a hologram detailing blueprints for not only the greatest crime ever, but the greatest show ever. What's their show about, you ask? Why robbing people, of course.
The story is absolute genius in every way, leading the audience to a spectacular reveal that I certainly didn't see coming. The film flows nicely, sometimes revealing the answer to a question quickly and sometimes making us wait a while. Either way, it's a hell of a ride.
The acting was impressive. Dave Franco has seemed to be living in his brother James's shadow, trying his best to launch his own career instead of always being known as "The Other Franco". After seeing this film, it would be a huge shame if Dave didn't start getting better projects. He has a talent, and it shouldn't be wasted. Jesse Eisenberg and Woody Harrelson were their usual snippy selves and a lot of the fun of the film comes from their snips at each other. Isla Fisher doesn't disappoint either, bringing charm to her role as "the distraction". She's not your usual magician's assistant; she's a successful magician herself.
In conclusion, I highly recommend seeing this film. If not for the cast or the story, then see it for the excellent film that it is. It keeps you interested, it keeps you guessing, and best of all, it keeps you wanting more. "The closer you look, the less you'll see."
© 2016 Nathan Jasper