Common Sense Media Review
By Tracey Petherick
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Magic, mystery, and some jump scares in Disney teen drama.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 8+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Now You See It...
What's the Story?
NOW YOU SEE IT… tells the story of budding teenage TV producer Allyson (Alyson Michalka) who is working on a reality TV show to find the "World's Best Kid Magician." When she meets the talented Danny (Johnny Pacar) she knows he's their best chance of winning. Filming at the mansion of master magician and show host Mystic Max (Frank Langella) it becomes clear that even Danny doesn't quite know how he is managing to pull off some impressive magic tricks. When Max discovers that Danny has real magical powers, he wants to control him, leaving Allyson to save the day.
Is It Any Good?
This family-friendly drama about a young magician has plenty of Disney's trademarks -- a perky hero, a sinister villain, magic, intrigue, and teamwork. An implausible storyline (that real magicians actually exist) is carried by a decent script and solid acting. Langella is reassuringly crooked as Mystic Max, while Pacar does a good job of portraying a teenager struggling to come to terms with his powers.
Despite this -- and a few spooky scenes and treacherous characters -- the overriding tone of Now You See It… is light. As the plucky teens solve puzzles, uncover secret messages, and expose deceptions, you can't help but go along for the ride.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the portrayal of reality TV in Now You See It…. Is it fascinating and harmless fun, or is it distasteful and exploitative? Why do you think people choose to appear on reality TV shows?
Did you find any parts of the movie scary? If so, what? How to choose a scary movie for your kid.
Do you think Danny is a relatable character? Although he has magic powers, his feelings around not fitting in are very common. Which other characters in Now You See It… can you relate to? Discuss the importance of friendship and teamwork as portrayed in the movie.
Talk about the role of a narrator in movies. Do you think it adds value or is it a lazy way of moving the story along? What other movies have a narrator? How have they differed in style?
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming : January 14, 2005
- Cast : Alyson Michalka , Johnny Pacar , Frank Langella
- Director : Duwayne Dunham
- Studio : Disney Channel Original Movies
- Genre : Drama
- Topics : Fantasy ( Magic )
- Character Strengths : Courage , Perseverance , Teamwork
- Run time : 89 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : September 30, 2025
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