Feeling aged already? The 2013 sensation *Now You See Me* is back with a third chapter, centered on young individuals against the “olds.” The series continues to showcase magicians leveraging their talents for wealth redistribution, but now the Horsemen (Jesse Eisenberg, Isla Fisher, Dave Franco, and Woody Harrelson) are up against the *youths* (Ariana Greenblatt, Dominic Sessa, and Justice Smith).

In an effort to connect with Gen Z and Gen Alpha, *Now You See Me: Now You Don’t* brings in younger magicians to renew the narrative, although the execution varies.

*Now You See Me: Now You Don’t* features Rosamund Pike as a remarkable antagonist.

The initial *Now You See Me* had Michael Caine as a nefarious insurance tycoon, with Daniel Radcliffe appearing in the follow-up. The latest film reveals a new malevolent family tied to Nazi gold.

Rosamund Pike portrays Veronika Vanderberg, a diamond trader who exploits laborers and cleans dirty money for criminals. The Horsemen are tasked with stopping her, but they have separated, prompting Danny Atlas (Eisenberg) to collaborate with Bushwick squatters for assistance.

The opening scene presents the new crew: Bosco (Sessa), a pickpocket named June (Greenblatt), and Charlie (Smith), a foster child passionate about crafting illusions. United, they aspire to heist the Heart Diamond to challenge economic disparity.

*Now You See Me: Now You Don’t* feels outdated from the outset.

To illustrate the kids’ anti-establishment vibe, June skillfully parkours up a factory to enter their hideout. After outsmarting some crypto enthusiasts, Bosco and Atlas exchange witty banter, suggesting a generational handover. However, similar efforts have faltered in other franchises.

The newcomers frequently serve as punchlines about aging and trends. Harrelson takes the brunt of it, misusing Gen Z slang and poking fun at hard seltzers.

These efforts at generational discord might seek to generate tension or delve into the Horsemen’s apprehension about growing older, yet they largely fail to flesh out the younger characters engagingly.

*Now You See Me: Now You Don’t* is chaotic, not a conundrum.

With eight principal characters, the story feels congested, leading to constant exposition dumps. The magic tricks, heavily dependent on CGI, provide temporary amusement, but the overarching mystery is foreseeable. The major twist becomes clear early on.

The screenplay seems to have been crafted by a team, credited to Seth Grahame-Smith, Michael Lesslie, and the Deadpool duo Paul Wernick and Rhett Reese. Their differing styles clash, resulting in an unoriginal sequel. Numerous plot holes are apparent, with the significant twist being revealed too early, making the conclusion unsatisfactory.

Regardless, it’s enjoyable to witness the Horsemen back together. Eisenberg adds layers to his role, Harrelson remains the jesting figure, Franco radiates charm, and Fisher exudes grace. There are also enjoyable cameos from other engaging characters.

The newcomers, Sessa, Smith, and Greenblatt, hold their ground alongside the seasoned cast. Pike embodies her villainous persona with a fierce grin. Although their roles lack depth, Sessa brings flair, Greenblatt supplies verve, and Smith impresses with his versatility.

The star appeal may please fans craving more antics. The sequel’s absence of originality might not be a drawback but rather a benefit, providing the solace of a well-known concept. Similar to the Fast and Furious series, *Now You See Me: Now You Don’t* delves into superhero realms with unbelievable stunts and resolutions. While it entertains, it falls short of astonishment or challenge.

*Now You See Me: Now You Don’t* premieres in theaters on Nov. 14.