"Now You See Me 2" received mixed reviews and underperformed at the box office compared to its predecessor. Several factors contributed to this: the sequel lacked the fresh intrigue of the original, received criticism for its convoluted plot and weaker character development, and faced stiffer competition from other summer blockbusters. Additionally, the novelty of the magic tricks and heist elements felt diminished, leading to a less enthusiastic reception from audiences and critics alike.

Yes, "Now You See Me 2" is a sequel to the 2013 film "Now You See Me." Released in 2016, it continues the story of the Four Horsemen, a group of illusionists who pull off heists during their performances. In this installment, they face a new adversary, played by Daniel Radcliffe, while trying to clear their names and expose a corrupt tech magnate. The film features a mix of magic, deception, and thrilling twists, maintaining the original's blend of heist and illusion themes.

Isla Fisher did not return for "Now You See Me 2" due to scheduling conflicts with other projects. The filmmakers decided to recast her role as Henley Reeves with Lizzy Caplan. Fisher's absence was explained by her character's storyline, allowing the sequel to introduce new dynamics without her participation. Despite her absence, the film continued to focus on the original ensemble cast and new characters, maintaining the heist and magic themes that defined the franchise.

As of October 2023, "Now You See Me 3" is in development, but no official release date has been announced. Lionsgate, the studio behind the franchise, confirmed that a third installment is being worked on, with the original cast expected to return. However, details about the plot and production timeline remain limited. Fans of the series are hopeful for updates, but they should stay tuned for further announcements from the studio.