Today's Edition
SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI)
The cast and crew of "Now You See Me: Now You Don't", have spoken about their magical experience filming on location in Abu Dhabi.
The third instalment of Lionsgate's blockbuster franchise features mind-bending illusions with high-octane stunts across some of the capital's most iconic locations - from aerial sweeps over Yas and Saadiyat islands, to a thrilling car chase around Ferrari World Yas Island, to a lavish party at W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island, and a spectacular finale at Louvre Abu.
The crime thriller, which releases in UAE cinemas on November 20, was made possible through a collaboration between Miral Destinations, Creative Media Authority, Abu Dhabi Film Commission, and Lionsgate Motion Picture Group.
Director Ruben Fleischer said filming in Abu Dhabi, in close collaboration with local film authorities, shaped the movie's visual identity, and left a lasting impression on him.
Speaking about the production support, he said: "We were really lucky to be able to film in Abu Dhabi just because it is such a spectacular city filled with so many amazing locations. And the film office was so generous in providing us access to these places like the Louvre of Abu Dhabi, which is one of the most spectacular architectural wonders."
He added that shooting across the city gave the team access to striking modern landmarks.
"The incredible F1 track and the W Hotel that straddles it. And then, for me, also just getting to go to the desert. We not only filmed there, but just experiencing the desert was a very cool memory for me from my time in Abu Dhabi."
The Louvre Abu Dhabi stood out immediately.
"We landed at the Louvre Abu Dhabi in large part because that structure, that incredible matrix of a roof, the open-air setting, the stage that is set in the middle of water with an audience opposite, it all felt so cinematic. When we were scouting it, I could already picture what it would look like when we'd be filming months later."
He noted that Abu Dhabi, with its modern architecture, gave the film a powerful contrast to its older European settings.
Discussing the film's potential impact on Abu Dhabi's global image, he said the city will be a revelation for many viewers.
"I feel like 'Now You See Me: Now You Don't' provides a window into a world that a lot of people don't have access to. I do not think most people have seen the Louvre Abu Dhabi or some of these other incredible locations. And so, in a way, this is a postcard from Abu Dhabi to the rest of the world, exposing some of its beauty and technology and wonder. To share with the rest of the world and hopefully provide people with a level of interest to come visit as well."
Fleischer expressed hope that his film will help pave the way for future collaborations.
"I hope that, you know, we will be the first of many films to come and have an incredible collaboration with the people in the government of Abu Dhabi."
And Fleischer said he would gladly return to Abu Dhabi for future projects.
"Next time I come back to Abu Dhabi, hopefully, we will be able to film during the day," he added.
Dominic Sessa, who plays young magician Bosco, said being on location in Abu Dhabi shaped the cast's performances, and turned the city itself into a key part of the story.
"I think most actors would agree when we are doing a movie, it is definitely helpful to be in the actual location that the story takes place. And I think that was what made being there so invaluable for all of us. You have such a unique place that's described in the story, so to actually see it and experience it just made it so much more real for all of us."
For Isla Fisher, who plays escape artist Henley Reeves, Abu Dhabi was both a stunning visual backdrop and an interesting place to visit.
"It was just a fascinating climate, fascinating people. I ate so many foods that I had not tried before and had so many interesting conversations. It was just like a whole other world. And we were so fortunate enough to have access to these locations that have not been filmed, you know, they have not been seen before. And I think that's what audiences will really enjoy about this movie."
The Australian actress believes the film - both the story and setting - will invite viewers back to the cinema: "This is a great film, just go with the family and see all these amazing locations. And that is very much to do with Abu Dhabi."
