Common Sense Media Review
By S. Jhoanna Robledo
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Slick sequel has similarly intense fights, language.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 13+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
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Now You See Me 2
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 7 parent reviews
Based on 31 kid reviews
Kids say this movie is an exciting and entertaining sequel that many consider even better than the first, featuring amazing magic tricks, intricate plots, and a satisfying conclusion. While it is suitable for teens and families, some viewers note that the movie can be confusing and contains mild language and intense scenes that may not be appropriate for younger children.
- entertaining sequel
- magical tricks
- complicated plot
- suitable for teens
- mild language
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
In NOW YOU SEE ME 2, the sequel to 2013's Now You See Me, the Four Horsemen—J. Daniel Atlas (Jesse Eisenberg), Merritt McKinney (Woody Harrelson), Jack Wilder (Dave Franco), and newcomer Lula (Lizzy Caplan)—are back from a year in hiding, awaiting word on their next move from FBI agent Dylan Rhodes (Mark Ruffalo). Rhodes is now very much part of their act, albeit silently, and their nemesis—constant debunker Thaddeus Bradley (Morgan Freeman)—is behind bars. But Bradley still wants to unmask the Horsemen and Rhodes, and when their return act goes awry and lands them in Macau, they discover that a previous run-in with their billionaire-backer-turned-enemy (Michael Caine) is far from over: Now his son (Daniel Radcliffe) is gunning for them, too.
Is It Any Good?
Much like its predecessor, this heist thriller's main driving force is the stylized, large-scale magic tricks that the film uses to both dazzle and take viewers behind the scenes. Now You See Me 2 is perhaps even more seductive than the original film, as viewers are both in on, and out of, the act—depending on which best suits the plot. We're invited along by an appealing ensemble that's led by the reliably brilliant Ruffalo, whose authenticity grounds even the most outlandish scenes, and enjoyably dastardly addition Radcliffe, who appears to be relishing a rare menacing turn. Nonetheless, the movie sometimes feels too slick for its own good, with the performance set pieces often taking too long to unwind—enough to make even avid magic fans impatient for the big reveal.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the Four Horsemen as potential role models in Now You See Me 2. The movie questions whether the characters are "Robin Hoods" or "common thieves." What motivates them? Can you think of other characters who break laws but are still considered do-gooders?
How is violence portrayed in the movie? Do you think it's too strong, or does it add to the story/sense of threat? How does it compare to the level of violence in similar films that aren't pure action movies but have action elements?
What's the film's take on unity and loyalty? How does it explore these themes? Why can it be important to show loyalty?
Movie Details
- In theaters : June 10, 2016
- On DVD or streaming : September 6, 2016
- Cast : Jesse Eisenberg , Dave Franco , Mark Ruffalo , Woody Harrelson
- Director : Jon M. Chu
- Inclusion Information : Asian Movie Director(s) , Chinese Movie Director(s)
- Studio : Lionsgate
- Genre : Thriller
- Topics : Fantasy ( Magic )
- Run time : 115 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : violence and some language
- Last updated : November 5, 2025
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