Now You See Me: Now You Don't

Grade: NOT RECOMMENDED

Summary

This film presents significant moral concerns due to its central plot revolving around theft and deception, even if presented as a 'heist' against a criminal. While it may contain elements of teamwork, the glorification of illicit activities makes it problematic for Catholic families.

Moral Concerns

• Glorification of theft (stealing a diamond)
• Normalization of deception and trickery as a means to an end
• Potential for scandal by presenting criminal acts (even against a 'villain') as heroic or justifiable entertainment
• MPAA rating PG-13 suggests content that may be unsuitable for younger viewers, potentially including moderate violence or suggestive themes not detailed in the provided plot.

Positive Elements

• Themes of teamwork and cooperation (among the protagonists)
• The antagonists are portrayed as engaged in serious criminal activity (money laundering, trafficking), implying a condemnation of these grave sins, though the means to combat them are also sinful.

Detailed Analysis

The core premise of 'Now You See Me: Now You Don't' involves a group of illusionists undertaking a 'most ambitious heist' to 'pinch her enormous diamond.' While the target, Veronika Vanderberg, is described as leading a criminal empire built on money laundering and trafficking, the protagonists' method of combating her is through theft. The Seventh Commandment clearly states, 'Thou shalt not steal.' Even if the theft is directed at a morally corrupt individual, the act of stealing itself remains a grave matter. The film appears to glorify deception and theft as a means of achieving a perceived good, which can create scandal by normalizing or making attractive actions that are inherently sinful. This presents a problematic moral message, particularly for younger audiences, by suggesting that the ends justify the means. The PG-13 rating also indicates that there may be other elements, such as moderate violence or suggestive content, not explicitly detailed in the plot summary, which would further contribute to its 'not recommended' status. While teamwork among the protagonists is a positive element, it is overshadowed by the illicit nature of their collective goal. Therefore, due to the glorification of theft and deception, the movie is problematic for Catholic families.

This review is based on traditional Catholic moral teaching as found in the Baltimore Catechism and the Ten Commandments. It is intended to help Catholic families make informed viewing decisions.