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‘Now You See Me 3’ Tops Box Office, Surprising Experts

Source: ‘Now You See Me 3’ races past ‘The Running Man’ at box office (2025-11-18)

The latest installment in the “Now You See Me” franchise, “Now You See Me: Now You Don’t,” has unexpectedly dominated the North American box office this weekend, surpassing the high-profile action film “The Running Man.” The film earned $21.3 million domestically, outpacing “The Running Man,” which made $17 million. With a production budget of approximately $90 million, the film’s worldwide opening is estimated at around $75.5 million, including 64 international territories. This marks nearly a decade since the previous film in the series, highlighting the franchise’s enduring popularity. The success is attributed to strategic marketing and publicity efforts that capitalized on holiday season momentum, as noted by Lionsgate’s Kevin Grayson. Recent developments in the film industry have seen a resurgence of long-standing franchises, with “Now You See Me” leading the charge due to innovative promotional campaigns, social media engagement, and targeted advertising. The film’s strong opening reflects a broader trend of audiences returning to theaters post-pandemic, especially for franchise installments that promise entertainment and escapism. Additionally, the film’s cast, including Jesse Eisenberg and Isla Fisher, has been actively involved in promotional tours, boosting visibility. The film’s success also coincides with a surge in interest in magic-themed entertainment, driven by popular streaming series and live shows. Furthermore, the film industry is experiencing a shift toward international markets, which now account for nearly 70% of box office revenue for major releases. The international performance of “Now You See Me: Now You Don’t” underscores the global appetite for American franchise films, especially those with high production values and engaging storytelling. The film’s marketing strategy included collaborations with social media influencers and viral marketing campaigns, which significantly contributed to its strong opening. In addition to box office success, the film has received mixed to positive reviews from critics, praising its visual effects and ensemble cast, though some noted the plot’s complexity. The film’s release also coincided with a wave of new streaming options, allowing audiences to choose between theater-going and at-home viewing, which may influence future box office trends. Industry analysts predict that the film’s performance will influence the release strategies for upcoming franchise installments, emphasizing the importance of integrated marketing and international outreach. As the holiday season continues, “Now You See Me: Now You Don’t” is poised to maintain its box office dominance, with projections indicating sustained interest through the end of the year. The film’s unexpected success demonstrates the resilience of franchise films and the effectiveness of modern marketing techniques in a competitive entertainment landscape. This victory not only boosts Lionsgate’s portfolio but also signals a promising outlook for other long-running series seeking to re-engage audiences worldwide.

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