Abu Dhabi: Abu Dhabi residents might have captured an exciting glimpse of several scenes from Lionsgate's highly anticipated movie ''Now You See Me: Now You Don't'', which wrapped an action-packed 13-day shoot across iconic locations in the capital.
According to Emirates News Agency, the star-studded cast of the film, including Jesse Eisenberg, Woody Harrelson, Dave Franco, Isla Fisher, Justice Smith, Dominic Sessa, Ariana Greenblatt, with Rosamund Pike, and Morgan Freeman, brought their magic to life across Yas Island and other Abu Dhabi landmarks, including breathtaking locations like Louvre Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Zayed Bridge, and the stunning Liwa desert. When the film hits screens later this year, fans will recognise landmarks including CLYMB and Ferrari World Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, Yas Marina Circuit, W Abu Dhabi - Yas Island, and several Abu Dhabi streets, where thrilling scenes and stunts have been filmed.
With the assistance of 175 local crew including the team at Epic Films, six UAE-based aspiring filmmakers secured internships on set through the talent development arm of the CMA, creative lab. These interns were exposed to on-set learning experiences and were able to apply their creative lab training, whilst seeing how an anticipated international blockbuster shoots on location.
Matt Leonetti, President, Physical Production for the Lionsgate Motion Picture Group, noted that the Now You See Me films have always taken audiences on global adventures, with Abu Dhabi's locations and people being part of what makes this film enjoyable and memorable for worldwide audiences.
Mohamed Dobay, Acting General Director of Creative Media Authority, expressed excitement about Abu Dhabi being a key filming location for the movie, highlighting the seamless facilitation and wrapping of another Hollywood production in 13 days across multiple iconic locations. The Lionsgate team benefited from the Abu Dhabi Film Commission's financial rebate offering and the expertise of local crew facilitated by Epic Films.
Liam Findlay, CEO, Miral Destinations, emphasized the pride in collaborating with global productions like Lionsgate's film, further establishing Yas Island as a premier destination for world-class entertainment and leisure. The seamless cooperation with ADFC and other stakeholders provided unrivaled access to iconic locations.
Set for release this November, the heist thriller benefits from Abu Dhabi Film Commission's support, including a cashback rebate and logistical advice. Directed by Ruben Fleischer, with a screenplay by Seth Grahame-Smith, Michael Lesslie, Paul Wernick, and Rhett Reese, the film is produced by Bobby Cohen, Alex Kurtzman, and Roberto Orci.
Now You See Me: Now You Don't is among over 180 major productions using Abu Dhabi as a location in recent years, benefiting from its diverse locations, talented professionals, award-winning facilities, and generous cashback rebate. Other major productions include Hollywood hits like Dune, Sonic the Hedgehog, and franchises such as Mission: Impossible and Fast and Furious.