Latest news with #ThePrestige
Tom's Guide
2 days ago
- Business
- Tom's Guide
Netflix just added guilty pleasure heist thriller 'Now You See Me' — and it's already crashed the top 10
Netflix has just added one of my favorite guilty pleasure movies, the 2013 slick heist thriller, "Now You See Me." Released to commercial (but not critical) success, Louis Leterrier's "Now You See Me" throws us in with a band of talented magicians embroiled in a cat-and-mouse chase with the cops as they carry out a series of robberies. It was big enough to spawn a franchise (threequel "Now You See Me, Now You Don't hits theaters this November) and is evidently winning over curious Netflix fans, too. Mere days after being added to the streaming service, it's already claimed the #6 spot on the streamer's most-watched list. Intrigued by this stage magic/heist thriller mash-up? Here's a little more info about the new arrival, and why I think you should stream "Now You See Me" on Netflix now. Louis Leterrier's "Now You See Me" introduces to a talented group of illusionists — street magician and leader, Daniel Atlas (Jesse Eisenberg), mentalist Merritt McKinney (Woody Harrelson), escapologist Henley Reeves (Isla Fisher) and impressionist, pickpocket and sleight of hand expert, Jack Wilder (Dave Franco) — collectively known as the "Four Horsemen". Brought together by an unknown force, the Horsemen begin using their talents to carry out elaborate, Robin Hood-style heists, robbing the rich and powerful and sharing their wealth with their adoring fans. At the same time, we follow an FBI agent and an Interpol detective as they investigate and attempt to stop the elusive illusionists. In addition to the above stars, "Now You See Me" also features Mark Ruffalo, Michael Caine, Morgan Freeman, and Mélanie Laurent. Get instant access to breaking news, the hottest reviews, great deals and helpful tips. It's important to go into "Now You See Me" with the right sort of expectations; this is not an all-time heist caper, but it is a breezy blast of smoke-and-mirrors flashy fun. "Now You See Me" is best approached as a slick, surface-level thriller. It's akin to movie junk food: high-concept, disposable blockbuster fun ("The Prestige" this ain't), mostly buoyed by its sly, self-confident but entertaining characters and their entertaining stunts. Things progressively get more implausible, sure, and the movie's absolutely let down by a weak, left-field ending, but I've always had a soft spot for the "smug magicians carry off elaborate bank heists and dodge the cops" conceit. If you're able to let yourself be swept up in the fast-moving plot and to be fooled by the Horsemen's tricks, I think you'll have a good time. While I'm a fan, "Now You See Me" isn't exactly critically acclaimed. At the time of writing, the movie has a 51% rating on Rotten Tomatoes (from a total of 171 reviews), though the Popcornmeter score is a more respectable 70%. Glancing at the takes from "Top Critics" on the site, you'll see some reviewers were swept up in the magic... and others most certainly weren't. For example, Empire's Olly Richards rated the movie 3/5 stars, praising the elaborate thrills and the sparky cast, concluding: "Magicians as criminals is a marvellous conceit and Louis Leterrier gets a great deal of entertainment out of it, but it can't disguise a weak end with smoke and mirrors." Reviewing at Entertainment Weekly, Owen Gleiberman, similarly, described the movie as a "fast and airy thriller" and "an engagingly preposterous high-wire act," one that's "exceedingly clever [...] when it bothers to make sense." On the flipside, The Guardian's Peter Bradshaw gave it a measly 2-star score, summing "Now You See Me" up succinctly as "overcooked, overcomplicated and underinteresting," adding; "it just gets tangled, wildly implausible and dull, and the quartet's mastery of the ordinary non-magic skills necessary in large-scale theft is entirely unconvincing, and no amount of narrative misdirection can get around this." Ouch. Regardless, I do think there's fun to be had with "Now You See Me." If you're looking for some light thrills to liven up your next movie night, give this mystery thriller a shot. And, if you find you enjoy your time with the Four Horsemen, Netflix has also added the sequel. But if you're really not convinced, we can still help you find your next watch. Check out our round-up of the best movies on Netflix for tons more streaming recommendations perfect for your next movie night.
Pink Villa
21-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Pink Villa
The Dark Knight Trilogy Writer Had Bigger Plans for Joker in Third Outing of Christopher Nolan
Christian Bale is still considered one of the best Batmans ever on screen. All thanks to Christopher Nolan, who brought the character to life, and Heath Ledger's character, who gave a tough time to the Caped Crusader onscreen. Meanwhile, the writer of the trilogy recently reflected on the initial plans of the film and how Joker had a major role in The Dark Knight Rises. As per a recent report, David Goyer, who penned the trilogy, working alongside the director of The Prestige, stated that he wanted much more of Joker in The Dark Knight Rises, which was even implemented in the original draft of the film. According to the writer, the original plan for the trilogy would have had Harvey Dent, aka Two-Face, be one of the villains in the third film. Meanwhile, Joker would have an even more crucial role in The Dark Knight, as he alone would have fought Batman, getting on his nerves and making the superhero even more frustrated. As per Fortress, this was the plan even before the principal photography for The Dark Knight. Coming to The Dark Knight Rises, that gave an even deadlier villain, Bane, it would have been another outing for Joker to play his games again. The movie was at first set to focus on Joker slowly corrupting Dent after he would be sent on trial for his crimes in the previous outing. However, the third outing, The Dark Knight Rises, still won many hearts and gave the trilogy a brought forth by Christopher Nolan a perfect ending. Besides Bale and Ledger, the trilogy even brought forth the talents of Cillian Murphy as Scarecrow, Liam Neeson as Ra's al Ghul, and Marion Cotillard as his daughter Talia al Ghul. Two-Face was played by Aaron Eckhart, with Gary Oldman playing James Gordon and Morgan Freeman as Lucius Fox.
NBC Sports
14-05-2025
- Entertainment
- NBC Sports
First look emerges of Nicholas Cage as John Madden (and Chrisian Bale as Al Davis)
When word emerged last year that Nicholas Cage will take a break from making a nonstop string of movies to play John Madden in yet another movie, it was a curiosity. We didn't know then what we know now. Christian Bale appears in the same film, as the legendary Al Davis. Cage has been in some things that, well, aren't good. Bale's work rarely lands in that category. The mere mention of Bale's name gives Madden cachet. Up the ying yang. (If you're never seen The Prestige, what are you waiting for? If you start now, you will have watched it twice by this time tomorrow.) Via Mike Fleming Jr. of production began this week. The first look at Cage as Madden and Bale as Davis is awesome. Others in the film include John Mulaney as EA founder Trip Hawkins, Kathryn Hahn as Virginia Madden, and Sienna Miller as Carol Davis. But it all comes back to Bale. Now that he is in, I'm all in. I'll consider it a bonus if they can lure Michael Caine out of retirement and get him to chain-smoke away his Cockney accent to play Pat Summerall.
Buzz Feed
17-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Buzz Feed
These 8 Taylor Swift Songs Are Identical To These Movies
If you are anything like me, you stopped believing in most things (like Santa, warranty policies, the government) LONG before you'd ever stop believing in Taylor Swift. giphy But as much as I can listen to the same Taylor Swift song over and over (sorry to those who share an apartment wall with me), sometimes it is good to branch out. So, if you want to diversify your media consumption but want to stay in the same lane as Tay... These Taylor Swift songs are identical to these movies. So if you like one, you'll like the other. 1. You Belong With Me / The DUFF pinterest / Via Really, I can't stress enough. The plot of the film is almost identical to Taylor's lyrics.... Just wait... "She wears short skirts." "I wear sneakers." "Don't you know that what you're looking for has been here the whole time?" 2. Look What You Made Me Do / The Prestige Starring: Hugh Jackman, Christian Bale, Scarlet Johanson, Michael Cane Genre: Thriller, drama Premise: In 1890s London, two magician friends become rivals after an on-stage accident killed the wife of one of the magicians. The similarities: -Rivalries -Bad blood (another wink to Tay) -Trust breaking -Tarnished reputations -Friends to enemies -Games and (literal) stages and roles to play -Rising from the dead - doing it all the time (LIKE COME ON) -Not moving on, hoping for karma Like, look at the parallels... "I don't trust nobody, and nobody trusts me." "I don't like your kingdom keys, they once belonged to me." It's almost eerie how similar they are. 3. All Too Well / One Day pinterest / Via Starring: Anne Hathaway, Jim Sturgess Genre: Romance, Drama Premise: Two university friends meet up once a year and watch their lives and relationships evolve over decades The similarities: -Lost connections -Young love -Inability to let go -Forever hoping that the man will get his s**t together -Meeting the other's parents, and it feeling like home -Seeming lost without them -Knowing how effing rare it was Like... come on... spot on. "Oh, your sweet disposition and my wide-eyed gaze were singin' in the car, getting lost upstate." "Maybe we got lost in translation, maybe I asked for too much, but this thing was a masterpiece til you tore it all up, running scared, I was there, I remember it all too well." "Then you call me up again, just to break me like a promise, so casually cruel in the name of being honest." 4. Anti-Hero / A Star is Born pinterest / Via Starring: Lady Gaga, Bradley Cooper Genre: Drama, Musical?? kind of Premise: An alcoholic musician falls in love with a young rising star, and watches his life crumble as hers sky-rockets The similarities: -The theme of never growing up -Old habits never dying -Self-sabotage -External praise, but inner turmoil -Negative side-effects of fame -Knowing the problem is themselves -Unsatisfaction -Being 'too big' for normalcy But the lyrics speak for themselves. "I have this thing where I get older but just never wiser." "I'm a monster on the hill, too big to hang out." pinterest "It must be exhausting always rooting for the anti-hero." Uncanny. 5. Cruel Summer / The Notebook pinterest / Via Starring: Ryan Gosling (one of the best actors of our generation) and Rachel McAdams (also one of the best actors of our generation... with the most stunning, symmetrical face), James Garland, Gena Rowlands, James Marsden Genre: Romance, Drama, Historical fiction? Premise: After a passionate summer love, a city girl and a country boy separate over societal pressures and spend years wondering if their paths will cross once again The Similarities: -A love worth a price (and you know that they bought it) -A heartbreaking end to a summer -Marking an intense love affair by a season -Uncertainty and secrecy -Crying for an entire car ride -Sneaking out to seal their fate (if you know what I mean...) But let's look at the lyrics... "Fever dream, high in the quiet of the night, you know that I caught it." "Devils roll the dice, angels roll their eyes, what doesn't kill me makes me want you more." pinterest "I love you, ain't that the worst thing you've ever heard?" pinterest View this video on YouTube View this video on YouTube Look how similar they are... "All of this to say, I hope you're okay but you're the reason. And no one's here to blame. But what about your quiet treason?" pinterest "All my mornings are Mondays stuck in an endless February. I took the miracle move-on drug. The effects were temporary." pinterest "I love you. It's ruining my life." I'm crying. 7. I Knew You Were Trouble / 500 Days of Summer pinterest Starring: Zoey Deschanel, Joseph-Gordon Levitt Genre: Romance, Drama, Comedy Premise: A young man falls madly in love with a girl that says she isn't looking for anything serious The similarities: -Being well aware of someone's intentions but thinking you can change them -When it ends, wondering if they ever cared about you at all -Never hearing them apologize -Feeling like it was somehow your fault -Realizing you were just another person to them -Zoey (Summer) and 'Red Era' Taylor's clothing aesthetic -In the end... it's all about Autumn (if you know, you know) View this video on YouTube View this video on YouTube Let's examine it. "You got me alone. You found me. I guess you didn't care. And I guess I liked that. But when I fell hard, you took a step back without me." pinterest "No apologies, they'll never see you cry, pretends they didn't know, that they're the reason why, you're drowning." "I knew you were trouble when you walked in, so shame on me." pinterest Now, finally... 8. mad woman / Carrie pinterest Starring: Sissy Spacek, John Travolta Genre: Horror, Thriller, Drama Premise: A young girl who has been bullied discovers she has the power of telekinesis and wreaks havoc on her school. The similarities: -A woman striking back after being stricken -Revenge -The power of anger -The idea of women needing to silence their emotions -Exploding after taking abuse for too long View this video on YouTube View this video on YouTube But I'll just let the lyrics speak for themselves. "Does a scorpion sting while fighting back? They strike to kill, and you know I will." pinterest "Now I breathe flames each time I talk." pinterest "I'm taking my time cause you took everything from me. Watching you climb over people like me." pinterest Those are just the beginning of my rabbit hole dive, but I am sure there are more. Let me know in the comments which other movies mirror Taylor Swift songs. And neighbours, just knock twice if I am playing Taylor too loud (again).
Express Tribune
10-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Express Tribune
Movies that will completely blow your mind
Cinema has the power to captivate and challenge, but some films take it a step further by twisting and turning the storylines in ways that leave us questioning everything we thought we knew. Whether through psychological suspense, surreal narrative techniques, or plot twists that leave you breathless, these movies are sure to deliver a cinematic experience unlike any other. From the complexities of identity and time to philosophical dilemmas that are not easily forgotten, the films on this list are more than just entertainment. They're unforgettable journeys that will leave you reflecting on their themes and unraveling their mysteries long after you've seen them. Here are some of the most mind-blowing films that should be on every cinephile's watchlist. 1. The Prestige (2006) – Directed by Christopher Nolan Christopher Nolan's The Prestige is a perfect blend of magic, obsession, and deception. The story centers around two rival magicians in the late 19th century, played by Christian Bale and Hugh Jackman. Their competition to create the perfect illusion escalates to dangerous and extreme lengths. As with many of Nolan's films, The Prestige toys with the concept of time, leaving viewers on the edge of their seat with one jaw-dropping twist after another. 2. Incendies (2010) – Directed by Denis Villeneuve In Incendies, director Denis Villeneuve weaves a gripping and emotionally charged narrative that delves into war, family secrets, and the haunting past. Following the death of their mother, twins Jeanne and Simon embark on a journey to the Middle East to uncover their mother's hidden history. The film slowly unravels a shocking revelation that will leave you questioning everything you thought you understood about the characters. It's a tense, emotional ride with one of the most devastating twists in modern cinema. 3. Mulholland Drive (2001) – Directed by David Lynch David Lynch's Mulholland Drive is an enigmatic masterpiece that's as surreal as it is perplexing. This neo-noir psychological thriller follows an amnesiac woman (played by Laura Harring) and an aspiring actress (played by Naomi Watts) as they try to uncover the mystery behind the woman's identity. Lynch's signature disorienting visuals and fractured narrative style create a dreamlike atmosphere, leading to a conclusion that will leave you in awe — and wondering if you've fully understood it at all. 4. Coherence (2014) – Directed by James Ward Byrkit With a low-budget, high-concept sci-fi premise, Coherence explores what happens when a group of friends at a dinner party experience an unexplainable cosmic anomaly. As strange occurrences begin to unfold, the film spirals into a tense exploration of parallel universes, reality, and the butterfly effect. The film's intricacy in its storytelling and the tension-filled atmosphere will leave you rethinking the concept of fate and chance. 5. Shutter Island (2010) – Directed by Martin Scorsese Martin Scorsese's Shutter Island is a psychological thriller that explores the blurred lines between reality and delusion. Leonardo DiCaprio plays Teddy Daniels, a U.S. Marshal sent to a mental institution on an isolated island to investigate the disappearance of a patient. As the investigation unfolds, Daniels finds himself questioning everything — including his own sanity. The film's dramatic twists and layered narrative will keep you guessing right until the final, mind-bending revelation. 6. Dogville (2003) – Directed by Lars von Trier Lars von Trier's Dogville is a minimalist psychological drama that plays with the boundaries of cinema. Set in a small, makeshift town, the film follows Grace (Nicole Kidman), a fugitive who seeks refuge in Dogville, only to experience the town's dark side. The stark, stage-like set and long takes make the film feel theatrical, while the story itself dives deep into themes of morality, revenge, and human nature. The shocking ending will leave you thinking about its implications for a long time after the credits roll. 7. The Game (1997) – Directed by David Fincher David Fincher's The Game is a psychological thriller that blurs the lines between reality and illusion. Starring Michael Douglas as a wealthy businessman who receives an unusual birthday gift in the form of a mysterious game, the story quickly spirals out of control as he begins to question whether the game is real or part of a larger conspiracy. With an unforgettable twist, this film keeps viewers on the edge of their seats, exploring themes of control, identity, and the power of perception. 8. Oldboy (2003) – Directed by Park Chan Wook Park Chan Wook's Oldboy is a masterclass in psychological thriller and revenge. After being imprisoned for 15 years without explanation, Oh Dae-su (Choi Min-sik) is suddenly released and embarks on a mission to find his captor and understand the reason for his torment. The film's intricate plotting, shocking twist, and exploration of human vengeance make it a deeply impactful film that will leave you stunned by the final revelation. 9. The Secret in Their Eyes (2015) – Directed by Juan José Campanella This Argentinian thriller, directed by Juan José Campanella, is a haunting exploration of justice, love, and the passage of time. A retired legal counselor, played by Ricardo Darín, revisits an unsolved case that haunted him for years, delving into memories of a murder and the impact it had on his life. The film's twisting narrative and unexpected conclusion will leave you speechless, making it a standout in the genre of suspenseful dramas. 10. The Skin I Live In (2011) – Directed by Pedro Almodóvar Pedro Almodóvar's The Skin I Live In is a disturbing and thought-provoking psychological thriller that tackles themes of obsession, identity, and transformation. Starring Antonio Banderas as a brilliant but unhinged surgeon, the film explores his experimentations on a woman he keeps captive. As the story unfolds, it takes dark, unexpected turns that challenge the viewer's perception of morality and identity. Almodóvar's direction and the film's stunning performances make it a haunting, unforgettable experience. 11. Seven (1995) – Directed by David Fincher David Fincher's Seven is a gritty, unforgettable thriller that follows detectives as they track down a serial killer who uses the seven deadly sins as his modus operandi. With a chilling performance by Brad Pitt as a rookie detective, the film's atmosphere and dark subject matter make it one of the most gripping and unsettling films of the genre. The film's shocking and thought-provoking conclusion has become one of cinema's most iconic moments. 12. Primal Fear (1996) – Directed by Gregory Hoblit In Primal Fear, a young Edward Norton delivers a breakout performance as Aaron, a troubled altar boy accused of murdering an archbishop. Richard Gere plays his defense attorney, who soon uncovers shocking twists that unravel Aaron's past. The film takes the audience on a rollercoaster of emotions, ultimately leading to a stunning final twist that redefines the entire narrative. 13. Predestination (2014) – Directed by Michael Spierig & Peter Spierig Predestination is a mind-bending time-travel film that follows a time-traveling agent (Ethan Hawke) as he works to prevent a catastrophic bombing. The film explores paradoxes, identity, and fate, with a plot that leaves the audience stunned as it unravels its intricate twists. Predestination challenges your understanding of time itself and will keep you thinking long after the credits roll. 14. Enemy (2010) – Directed by Denis Villeneuve Enemy is a psychological thriller directed by Denis Villeneuve that explores themes of identity, duality, and the subconscious. Jake Gyllenhaal plays a man who encounters his doppelgänger, leading to a series of disturbing events. The film's eerie atmosphere, unsettling visuals, and ambiguous ending make it a chilling meditation on the human psyche.
