Now You See Me Blu-ray Review

The Ultra HD Blu-ray release of "Now You See Me" showcases the striking transformation of the film from its original 35mm format, finished with a 2K Digital Intermediate (DI), up to a 3840 x 2160p resolution. This HEVC / H.265 encoded 2160p transfer maintains the movie's original 2.40:1 aspect ratio, incorporating 10-bit video depth, a wider colour gamut (WCG), and high dynamic range (HDR) to deliver a richer, more detailed viewing experience. While the upgrade from the 2K DI to 4K UHD primarily enhances colour saturation, gradation, and shadow detail—thanks to the superior use of HDR—the improvement in detail resolution over the regular Blu-ray is somewhat nominal, attributed more to these colour and dynamic range enhancements than to increased resolution.

Notably, the HDR addition profoundly accentuates finer details and contrast, especially in the darker scenes set in locations like Las Vegas, where improved contrast battles yet at times falls short due to lackluster black levels. The natural grain inherent from its 35mm origin is preserved, giving it a film-like texture that fans will appreciate, though this same grain can appear exaggerated or oddly behaved at times, particularly in close-ups, likely a byproduct of the upscale process. However, these moments do little to detract from the overall excellence of this presentation.

Despite being initially shot on Arriflex 235s and undergoing an upscaling process from its 2K DI for this 4K release, "Now You See Me" benefits from commendably managed colour tones and an improved accounting of intermediary shades. Enhanced shadow detail and specular highlights, such as sun reflections and stage lights, contribute to a more defined and visually impactful experience. Though certain scenes may suffer from soft CGI and an occasionally inconsistent grain texture, the presentation remains largely impressive, offering a nuanced and engaging visual feast that elevates the viewing experience considerably.

Now You See Me’s transition to 4K UHD heralds a commendable enhancement in its audio experience, primarily via the incorporation of a Dolby Atmos mix, accompanying the previously established DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1-channel soundtrack available on the Blu-ray edition. The original 7.1 mix is lauded for its dynamic effects steering and potent bass moments, aligning deftly with the film's vibrant visuals. This foundational robustness is elegantly elevated by the Dolby Atmos upgrade, which introduces a layer of height to the sound design. Utilizing overhead channels, this mix enriches scenes with added atmosphere and a meticulous emphasis on specific sound effects, such as the lifelike rumble of trains in an elevated tracks sequence or the precise directional flick of cards thrown by Dave Franco.

The Dolby Atmos track thrives on subtlety and precision in sound localization, utilizing the object-based capabilities of the format to enhance the film’s immersive audio landscape. Examples of exceptional object placement include the distinct flutter of a deck of cards and the spatial positioning of sounds during the Las Vegas show sequences, although some crowd noises in these scenes occasionally feel slightly artificial. The use of low frequency effects (LFE) notably amplifies the intensity of stage illusions and complements an enveloping score that extends through the surround channels, further bolstering the auditory spectacle. Dialogue maintains clarity and priority within the mix, ensuring that narrative elements remain accessible amidst the audio spectacle.

Despite a few minor critiques regarding crowd sound processing, the overall upgrade to Dolby Atmos on the 4K UHD version significantly enhances the viewing experience, underpinned by a meticulous balance between dialogue, score, and sound effects. This audio presentation not only respects but accentuates the film’s dynamic visuals and narrative beats, achieving a harmonious blend of clarity and immersive sound design that elevates Now You See Me to new auditory heights.

The US Ultra HD Blu-ray release of "Now You See Me" presents a noteworthy package for fans and collectors alike, offering both the Theatrical and Extended Cuts of the film, with the Extended Cut exclusive to the Full HD Blu-ray, which is region-locked to A. While the Ultra HD Blu-ray is limited to the Theatrical Cut and lacks any supplemental material, the standard Blu-ray compensates with a comprehensive suite of extras, all in HD, ensuring a deep dive into the movie's creation, magic, and more. The included audio commentary provides insightful behind-the-scenes anecdotes, primarily led by producer Bobby Cohen, enhancing the viewing experience. Additional highlights include a promotional featurette, a historical look at magic influenced by the film's consultant magician David Kwong, an array of deleted scenes that offer a glimpse into alternative storylines, and both teaser and theatrical trailers, though it's notable that a digital HD copy is included but may not be redeemable in all regions.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary: Informative track with producer Bobby Cohen and director Louis Leterrier.
• Now You See Me Revealed: Behind-the-scenes featurette with cast and crew interviews.
• A Brief History of Magic: Magician David Kwong hosts this look at magic's history related to the film.
• Deleted Scenes: A collection of 13 scenes not included in the final cut.
• Teaser Trailer: Brief initial promotional trailer.
• Theatrical Trailer: Main trailer for the film.

"Now You See Me" emerges as a vibrant heist narrative carried predominantly by its charming cast and a plot that intricately weaves magic with mystery. The film is centered around The Four Horseman, a quartet of magicians, each specializing in a unique aspect of illusion – from mentalism to sleight of hand. Directed with finesse by Louis Leterrier, whose dynamic camerawork amplifies the film's quicksilver pace, "Now You See Me" delights in blurring the lines between deception and reality, engaging audiences with its clever storytelling and visually captivating set pieces. Despite some of its more fantastical elements tipping the scales towards science fiction, the blend of actual stage magic and cinematic illusion crafts a spectacle that is both intriguing and visually arresting.

The cast, including Jessie Eisenberg, Woody Harrelson, Isla Fisher, and Dave Franco as the enigmatic magicians, and supported ably by Mark Ruffalo, Morgan Freeman, and Michael Caine, deliver performances that enhance the film's lively spirit and complex narrative. Eisenberg's portrayal of the cocky leader is balanced well by Harrelson's comedic timing, while Ruffalo as the determined FBI agent anchors the film's more grounded pursuits. Despite its potentially convoluted plot, the movie's direction ensures that the suspense and excitement remain at the forefront, making it a fun watch that arguably merits a second viewing to piece together its intricate puzzle.

The film's reception has varied, with some critical reviews targeting its sequel rather than diminishing the original's luster. "Now You See Me" stands on its own as a stylish and entertaining film that effectively employs misdirection in both its story and its spectacle. While its 4K UHD release may promise an enhanced visual experience, the essence of the film—its heart-pounding pace, commendable performances, and a story that captivates—remains its true prestige, making it a compelling watch for enthusiasts of magic and heist movies alike.

"Now You See Me" arrives on Ultra HD Blu-ray with an allure comparable to the movie's own enchanting narrative, offering a visual and auditory experience that elevates the film beyond its original release. The movie itself is a delightful escapade, intertwining a cleverly constructed plot with likeable characters, albeit sometimes delving more into the realm of fantastical technology than true magical artistry. Despite its tendencies towards the preposterous, the film maintains a charm that, on repeat viewings, surprisingly substantiates its initially frivolous twists.

This Blu-ray edition excels in delivering a superior viewing experience, courtesy of its HDR grading and Dolby Atmos soundtrack. The image quality, derived from a 2K source, is enhanced significantly on Ultra HD, boasting greater definition and a more pronounced color palette that does justice to the film's cinematography. The auditory experience is equally upgraded with Dolby Atmos, producing an immersive soundscape that complements the film's dynamic visuals. The inclusion of an extended cut and a modest assortment of extras make this release a worthy addition for fans and newcomers alike who seek to experience the film in its most polished form.

In conclusion, while "Now You See Me" on 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray might not fulfill every expectation set by early advocates of 4K UHD in terms of groundbreaking visual quality, it represents a significant upgrade over its Blu-ray predecessor, especially in audio performance. It is likely to appeal most to those yet to own the movie, or fans eager to see it in a new light with enhanced technology at their disposal. Despite any reservations regarding its visual fidelity as a showcase of 4K capabilities, this release stands out for its improved audio-visual presentation, making it a notable pick for enhancing one’s collection.