Now You See Me Now You Don’t — Full Review (No Spoilers)

Picture of Review Thumbnail featuring the cast of the film. 

Every once in a while, a franchise returns after years of silence and reminds you exactly why you enjoyed it in the first place—not because it reinvented cinema, but because it made you smile. Now You See Me Now You Don’t is that kind of movie. After nine long years, I took myself out on a movie date to see it, and honestly, it felt like stepping back into a familiar magic trick where you already know the setup, but you still enjoy watching it unfold.

Before anyone asks: yes, the world is buzzing about Wicked for Good, and no, this isn’t that review. That one is coming later. But while everyone is distracted by flying houses and emerald-green lighting, this little heist-magic-film slipped into theaters—and I’m glad I didn’t miss it.

One thing I appreciate about this series is the cast chemistry. We’ve had three different directors across the franchise, yet somehow it all still feels cohesive. That’s the cast. That’s the dedication. They love magic. They love heist movies. They love this story.

And yes—we got the original Four Horsemen back:

  • Woody Harrelson

  • Jesse Eisenberg

  • Dave Franco

  • Isla Fisher

Seeing them together again felt like reconnecting with old friends who didn’t miss a beat.

We also have newcomers Justice Smith, Dominic Sessa, and Ariana Greenblatt. And speaking of Ariana—I swear we have watched this girl grow up on-screen. From In the Heights, to Barbie, to this, she came in with such a different look that I didn’t immediately recognize her. But I loved the generational dynamic they used her for: boomers and millennials versus Gen Z, but in a way that still lands with the message that we don’t have to be fighting. Everyone has something to learn from someone. 

If you love this franchise, this movie will not break anything for you. If you watched the first two and enjoyed them, you’ll enjoy this one. This movie is not trying to be deep. It's not trying to be groundbreaking. It’s trying to entertain you—and it does.

Narratively speaking? Yes, I guessed the twist early. By minute 30, I already knew where we were headed. By minute 45, I was confident. And it wasn’t because I was being Sherlock Holmes. The movie literally points to a clue. When that shot appeared, I said, “Oh, okay, that’s where we’re going.” So the reveal wasn’t shocking, but the journey was still fun.

And I love when these movies break down how the tricks work. But I do prefer the practical illusions over the ones that rely on filmmaking magic. Some of the tricks really are just editing. I miss the sleight-of-hand moments, though I’m sure the magician society told them, “Stop giving away our secrets.”

Cinematography? Solid.
Editing? Smooth.
Energy? High.

The movie is 1 hour and 53 minutes but felt like 90. I was tired when I sat down, and the fact that I didn’t get tired watching it says everything. There are no after-credit scenes, so once the credits start, that’s your cue.

And honestly? Sometimes films can just be fun. Not every movie needs a deep analysis or a long breakdown. Sometimes you just want a good popcorn flick—and this is exactly that.

Do you like the Now You See Me franchise? What are your thoughts?
My favorite Horseman will forever be Henley, followed by Merritt.

It is unfortunate that this movie is being overshadowed by Wicked for Good, but now you know it’s out. So go support it. Go enjoy it. And hopefully, go help us get a fourth movie.

And speaking of a fourth movie—what do you think the next title should be? Drop your ideas in the comments.


Shaquanna “Quanna” Stevens is a film critic, educator, and storyteller who reviews films through the lens of culture, representation, and genre. She runs Her Reel Review, where she explores horror, romance, fantasy, and films by Black creators. When she’s not writing or filming reviews, she teaches English IV Honors and AP Literature, advises student filmmakers, and helps young creatives develop their voices. 

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