One of the biggest box office surprises of 2013 thus far has been director Louis Leterrier’s magician heist pic Now You See Me.  The $75 million film went on to gross $115.6 million domestically, and it’s international total now stands at $119.3.  When you consider that some major studio tentpoles (ahem The Lone Ranger) have failed to cross the $100 million mark stateside, that is an incredibly impressive performance; obviously this means it’s time to make a sequel.  THR reports that Lionsgate and Summit are moving forward with a follow-up film, with production currently “penciled in” for 2014.  Should that plan stick, we could expect to possibly see Now You See Me 2 hit theaters in 2015.  Hit the jump for more.

I’m not exactly sure where you take the story in a further film, but as the studio is looking at a likely worldwide total of $275 million, they’re keen on continuing the Now You See Me brand.  I thought the first film was just fine, but I've spoken to many who were big fans.  Again, though, it really felt like the story ended, so whoever Summit sets to write the screenplay will need to find a worthwhile angle to continue the adventures of the Four Horseman.  Per THR's report, details are are basically non-existent at this point, and it’s unknown if Leterrier will return to direct.  We also don't know which cast members will be back, but it's possible that Jesse Eisenberg, Woody Harrelson, Dave Franco, Isla Fisher, and Mark Ruffalo all signed multi-picture deals.

What do you think, readers?  Is Now You See Me 2 necessary?  Where would you like to see the story go in a follow-up?