The "Now You See Me" franchise is poised to unveil its fourth installment with much anticipation. Ruben Fleischer has inked a deal to develop and steer the fourth chapter of this exhilarating action-heist film series, with the news officially announced by Adam Fogelson, the chair of the Lionsgate Motion Picture Group, at CinemaCon on Tuesday. The inaugural 2013 film, "Now You See Me," revolved around a troupe of illusionists who cleverly executed robberies amidst their breathtaking performances.
At the glamorous Las Vegas event, it was also revealed that the impending third film in the series has been renamed "Now You See Me: Now You Don’t." Fleischer will helm this cinematic delight, set to hit theaters on November 14th, featuring the return of franchise favorites such as Jesse Eisenberg, Mark Ruffalo, Woody Harrelson, Dave Franco, Isla Fisher, and Morgan Freeman. Joining the talented ensemble are Ariana Greenblatt, Justice Smith, Dominic Sessa, and Rosamund Pike.
"Ruben has masterfully woven the intricate twists, turns, and sleight-of-hand tricks that fans have come to expect from this franchise, while elevating the stakes and grandeur in every conceivable way," praised Fogelson. "We eagerly await the audience's reaction to his mesmerizing take on the third film and are thrilled that he will continue to conjure even more magic with us."
Bobby Cohen, who has been instrumental in all the films of the franchise, and Alex Kurtzman of Secret Hideout are producing the fourth film. Meredith Wieck is overseeing this latest venture for the studio. Collectively, the "Now You See Me" franchise, including its 2016 sequel, has amassed an impressive $687 million worldwide.
"Directing 'Now You See Me: Now You Don’t' was an exhilarating experience, akin to the joy of making any film in my career," shared Fleischer. "It beautifully blends two of my passions – heist movies and magic – and collaborating with this remarkable cast was nothing short of magical. Naturally, I'm eager to keep the magic alive."
Robert Melnik brokered the deal for Lionsgate, while Fleischer is represented by CAA and Sloane Offer.
CinemaCon, an annual convention for exhibitors and Hollywood studios, is currently running from March 31st to April 3rd this year. It is presented by Cinema United (formerly known as the National Association of Theater Owners), making it a grand stage for such exhilarating announcements.