I happened to warch The Great Illusionist first before this one and although this gave a small introduction to the main character, the sequel would still be understood without watching this prequel.

The main character's personality is so different in this prequel, it is like night and day. I however prefer the character of the main lead in the sequel than here.

So unlike other mystery that later on gets explained how it was done, don't expect it from this film. The story is about Illusions that is a fantasy.
There is a crime commited that needs to be solved but it isn't a normal crime like in the real world.
Though humor was inserted here, the sequel made me burstbout laughing and it didn't do that for me here.

I will recommend seeing this only if you are searching for something to pass time. If you have to choose between this and the sequel The Great Illusionist to watch then watch the sequel.