Cause & Effects

The Greatest Prop In Magic History

2014-03-04T20:00:00.001-08:00

What if I told you about a prop that could cause miracles?

What if this prop could do the following:

- make objects disappear
- make objects appear
- change one object into another
- read peoples' minds
- float objects in the air
- produce flashes of light from your bare hands
- and much more

What if this prop only weighed a few ounces?

What if this prop was "invisible" to most people...even if they were staring right at it?

What if this prop only cost a few dollars?

What if this prop was easy to use?

What if this miracle prop actually existed?

Well, it does. If you haven't guessed by now, I'm taking about the THUMB TIP.

I had a conversation a couple of years ago with Peter Loughran of Master of Illusions in Canada and we both agreed that you could make a strong argument that the thumb tip was the greatest prop ever invented in the history of magic.

Think about all that is possible with a thumb tip...and then realize what a dismissive attitude most magicians have toward it! There are many times when a professional routine is put out, costing hundreds of dollars, and one of the components is the thumb tip. On more than one occasion, while watching the training DVD accompanying a prop, the pro on the DVD will apologetically introduce the thumb tip, as if he is ashamed or perhaps more accurately, he realizes many magicians, upon hearing that one of the secrets to the routine is the thumb tip, will cry out, "Oh, is THAT all?"

And mind you, the pros putting out this material put out GREAT material. I'm not going to mention their names because it's not my place to reveal their products' secrets, but the props and routines I'm tip-toeing around are GREAT routines and worth much more than what I paid.

Why do magicians sneer at thumb tips? Probably because we're so used to it, we take it for granted. Plus, many magicians out there are buying stuff looking for the "miracle" that they'll never find. No genie in a bottle exists.

It's time we look at our classic tools as they are - tools. A carpenter does not cast aside his hammer looking for something "cooler" to do the job. He uses what works.

And don't use the "Thumb tips are in all those kiddie magic sets" as an excuse either. I remember a few years ago at a school show, a student, fifth grade, after seeing my show remarked that he too was a magician. When I asked him what kind of effects he did, he looked down at his feet and mumbled using "that plastic thumb." I immediately remarked, "Oh, you can do so much with those! That's a great prop!"

He looked at me in disbelief. I then added, "I used THREE thumb tips in the show you just saw." His jaw hung open in disbelief. And it was true - in front of 300 fifth graders, in a 45 minute show, I had used three thumb tops, all in very different ways, but in theory they could have 'seen' the tips. the fact that he was so surprised at this revelation was all the proof I needed to know I had gotten through to him and made my point crystal clear.

So, how do YOU feel about possibly the greatest prop ever created in magic?

MARCH MADNESS SPECIAL.... order ANY of my products (stuff by Cris Johnson) at www.ProfessionalMagicProducts.com and receive FREE shipping anywhere in the USA!

REVIEW: Levitation Impossible by Steve Fearson

2014-02-25T15:37:00.001-08:00

Sorry it's been a while since my last post but it's been crazy-busy...aside from my performing career, I'm also seeing 12-15 clients a week in my hypnosis clinic so things are essentially a blur most of the time in my life!

This week I want to take a good look at a product that has been lighting up the internet for quite some time...it's "Levitation Impossible" by Steve Fearson. It's available for $29.95 from emagicsupply.com.

EFFECT: Basically, a crumpled up dollar bill levitates up and down and even SPINS in an upside down wineglass. The dollar and glass can be borrowed.

ANGLES: Surprisingly good for this type of effect. There is a "basic" and "advanced" version, and if you're on stage and your lighting conditions are good, you can pull off either version quite well. If lighting conditions are not in your favor, you can switch to the basic version only.

HANDLING: I will confess that I have not started working on this just yet although from my initial viewings of the online tutorial, this will take a little work to really do it justice but nothing that's going to take years to master. I'd say...basic handling a 3 out of 10 and the advanced handling 5 out of 10. Bear in mind those are just my initial impressions as I have not actually started working with this yet.

MY THOUGHTS: Unfortunately I cannot tip what you receive in the physical package that's mailed to you without revealing the method. Regardless, rest assured that the methodology is sound and very unique as well as being wonderfully low tech.

I will admit that while watching the demo video 20-30 times (like most of you!) I simply could not figure this out and while it's great to be amazed (I do cherish that feeling after watching a GOOD performance) when debating whether or not to buy something it is worrisome because so much of magic these days feels like it's aimed at those folks still infatuated with "street magic" and thus is not often practical for real-world pros like myself.

Happily, I believe this is a "worker." Steve Fearson of course has a solid reputation in the industry and this being his baby is what finally convinced me to take the plunge.

While this is obviously designed for close up presentations - tableside, not really "strolling" to groups of people standing - I think it would play well for parlor. Get a big enough wine glass, one that can really show the up & down levitation, and I think it would work. Additionally, I think this works even BETTER for parlor because most close up situations in the real world would involve the hustle-bustle of restaurant work or corporate cocktail hour events.

The "get ready" of doing the effect with a borrowed bill is by far the most challenging part of the routine...not because it's knuckle-busting difficult but merely because it's take a few seconds of work and if one is a true entertainer, then you must tell a story or otherwise ENTERTAIN the audience during the prep work for this step.

A few thoughts on the Basic & Advanced Handling differences...

I'm really torn because the Advanced Handling looks really terrific and though the Advanced Handling does indeed use what most of you reading this might suspect, it is not the "main" gimmick and the fact that the bill PK movement is happening under the glass seems to negate any use of this traditional method completely...however, the "get ready" for the advanced handling, and in particular one move, looks so unbelievably unnatural and hokey that it's almost enough to make me run from the Advanced Handling completely. That's for you to decide.

As far as the Basic Handling goes, it too looks really fantastic except for what may look to spectators as a completely unnecessary full body turn on the part of Fearson...as I start working with this effect I will see if I can eliminate that body turn. Incidentally, this body turn happens during the best part of the effect - as the bill is rotating inside the upside down glass. The body turn is done to help mask certain necessary movements but to me it kind of kills the beautiful rotation.

END THOUGHTS: All in all, I think this release has potential. I'll give it a solid 8 out of 10.

Trick Review: Cue The Magic by Angelo Carbone

2014-02-02T12:04:00.001-08:00

I'm back with another trick review!

This time it's Cue The Magic by Angelo Carbone. It's available from many dealers online.

EFFECT: A spectator is invited onstage to become a magician. The performer assures the volunteer that a series of cue cards will make becoming a master magician easy and fun. The spectator, with urging from the performer, reads the cue cards in succession, selects a spectator, and after a lot of laughs, shows that he predicted what card the spectator would select in dramatic fashion.

WHAT YOU RECEIVE: You receive a full set of cue cards with alternate cards available, based on whether you are doing a day or night show, adult or family show, and other details. You also receive a few pages of written instructions and cards and gimmicks to accomplish the trick.

MY THOUGHTS: This is one of the most commercial tricks I've seen in years. What I mean by that is that this is a "worker." The secret is simple, elegant, and in terms of physical handling very easy. I grasped the handling in a day, but continued practicing for a few weeks before launching the routine. I'm pleased to say that the responses have been fantastic.

First, the routine is very funny, provided you are quick on your feet and can do a halfway decent job of adlibbing to the humor opportunities that come your way. I feel the best part of this routine is the by-play between you and the spectator. To paraphrase Eugene Burger, it's the journey that makes this such a fun routine. While the revelation is great and plays well (I receive gasps when the selected card is revealed), the fact is that the audience most enjoys the humor leading to the revelation.

As far as the quality of the cards go, with care they will last a long time. Additionally, the cards are shipped in a sturdy plastic envelope that will help protect your props.

The selection of the card by the spectator is 100% free choice - any card can be selected, which means there is no fishing, forcing, dual reality, or anything like that. No restrictions, so it really does seem impossible.

The angles on this are also very good. As long as no one can see directly behind you, you're covered. If audience members are off to your sides, you can hold the props closer to your body and you'll be in good shape.

Another good feature of this routine is that there is no set up. You take the cards out of the travel case and perform. It's that easy. In fact, recently a magic friend of mine came to my office to visit and wanted to see this routine. I picked up the props and did it immediately as he stood about 4 feet away from me. He was blown away and had no idea how it was done.

Resetting is also a breeze, just a few seconds and you're ready for another performance which is a great feature for cruise ship or family performers who may do several shows a day.

Finally, another thing I really appreciate about this routine is the fact that this is not a quick 30 second trick but a 5 minute full developed routine. In terms of stage work, having a pack flat, play big routine is great that also takes some time and allows you the performer a chance to flex your humor muscles.

FINAL RATING: This gets an easy 10 out of 10 from me. This is a stage worker's dream as it's very commercial, funny, adaptable for different markets, can be done in the living room or stage, is easy in terms of technique, and burns up some time. It's an almost perfect routine for nearly any market. Highly recommended.

Trick Review: MIB by Scott Alexander & Puck

2014-02-02T11:41:00.001-08:00

Hello all,

I apologize for the delay in getting this review done, but between vacation, hypnosis clients, performing, and a bad case of the flu, I've been pretty busy.

As promised, I'm tackling MIB by Scott Alexander & Puck. It's a take-off on the classic Confabulation plot. It's available directly from both creators as well as www.hocus-pocus.com.

EFFECT: The performer gives an audience member a sealed glass bottle to hold. A rolled up paper can be clearly seen inside. Then, the performer asks the audience for suggestions for a plot of some type - a "dream vacation" is very popular. Questions pertaining to location, guests, activities and other details are solicited. The performer can be seen jotting down the answers on a whiteboard.

After enough questions are answered, the bottle in placed into an empty paper bag and broken with a hammer by the performer. Using a pair of tongs, to avoid touching the broken glass, the rolled paper is pulled out of the bag. The spectator holds one end of the paper as the performer unrolls it to close to 11 feet across the stage. The answers given are clearly seen woven through the story told on the rolled paper.

WHAT YOU GET: You receive the high-tech whiteboard, a supply of rolled paper, batteries, paper bags, tongs, a training DVD and a few other goodies.

MY THOUGHTS: This is a true revelation and THE most significant advance in the Confabulation plot since the classic prediction chest, with one of the most popular versions being the Malloy Chest. The downside of the Malloy chest, despite the prediction being written large enough to be clearly seen by big audiences, was that you needed an offstage assistant.

Other handlings of this plot were designed for one man applications, but the tradeoff was the fact that the writing was small, only visible for the one spectator who was viewing it onstage with the performer.

MIB is both one-man and written in large letters so the entire audience can read the prediction. Additionally, the predicted answers are all woven through the narrative. This is significant because most one man versions had all of the predicted answers bunched up in one corner of the prediction paper. By having the answers spread out through the body of the prediction, everything appears both organic and natural as well as more mystifying.

That alone would be enough to warrant a 'hit' with MIB, but other features really make this a winner. First, the angles are very forgiving and as long as no one is directly behind you you'll be safe. Secondly, despite this being an electronic prop, it is very quiet in operation. While it is recommended that you play music during the 'selection' phases to cover the noise, the volume of music required is not very high. Case in point: I recently performed this effect for a small group of 8 people who were VERY close. MIB is not really recommended for groups that small, but due to a miscommunication between myself and the client, I was kind of stuck, but everything worked out just fine.

The investment price is around half of that of the Malloy prediction chest so I cannot imagine why anyone would not invest in this if they have the budget to consider the Malloy version.

INSTRUCTION: Puck & Scott Alexander have reputations for delivering quality material and explaining things very clearly and MIB is no exception. After viewing the 60 minute DVD, I was ready to go. After a couple of weeks of rehearsal I felt very confident incorporating this into my act and have never looked back.

ELECTRONICS NOTE: I recently found out that the electronics are built by Nick Wenger, who has a stellar reputation for putting out quality material. I own a bunch of other props by Nick and everything he builds is top notch.

FINAL RATING: This is an easy 10 out of 10 by me. I've been chasing the perfect one man stage Confab routine in which the whole audience can see the written prediction very clearly and this succeeds in all levels. My search is over and I can't recommend this any higher.

Different Tricks, Same Effect

2014-01-13T15:52:00.002-08:00

I want to talk a little today about multiple methods for the same effect in magic. In years past, I’ve been pretty vocal about the fact that most of the time, just pick a method and stick with it, end of story.

For instance, let’s consider the classic 100 Bill Switch. There are a ton of published handlings out there. (For the past 15 years or so, I’ve used Kevin King’s “Money Morph” handling and that’s just my choice). But there are so many handlings that often magicians have trouble sticking with one handling for long in order to truly master a handling…and in my world, mastering it means you’ve polished it to as close to perfection as you can get and then you’ve also performed it hundreds of times for lay audiences and continued polishing it based on feedback, etc.

When you swap handlings for the latest craze, you never fine-tune an effect. It’s not drilled into your muscle memory and polished to the point where you can just DO the effect so well, so nonchalantly that your mind is free to adjust or adlib based on conditions and opportunities presented to you.

So, pick a good handling for a given effect and stick with it.

Interestingly, for the purpose of this article, I’m going to play devil’s advocate and change my position. The reason? Whenever anyone says, “This rule is unbreakable,” I immediately start thinking of possible exceptions to said rules…even if the rule is one of my own! Let me expand on this by discussing my favorite mentalism effect, Confabulation…the plot where audience members are asked to name out loud certain random (or not so random) pieces of information, such as a brand of car, a vacation destination, a celebrity name, anything. The strongest handlings mean there are NO restrictions on what can be named in a category. Then, all of these choices are shown to have been predicted in advance by the performer, often incorporated into a story of some kind on a piece of paper.

In other areas – blogs, articles, reviews, etc. – I’ve been pretty vocal about my thoughts of this being the strongest effect in mentalism. I won’t define my criteria or defend it here – it’s just how I feel for plenty of reasons – but my love of this plot means I’ve searched for years for the perfect handling.

Now, my idea of “perfect handling” may be different than yours. In my case, “perfect handling” means it’s one-man…no assistants. In my own handling (available in two of my “Cause & Effects” books at www.ProfessionalMagicProducts.com) I have a sealed FedEx envelope in the audience before the show starts and at the end of the show, after all of the Confab choices are made by random audience members, the FedEx envelope is opened by an audience member. There’s a smaller envelope inside. Inside that is a sealed package – two 5x7 notecards stapled together around the perimeter of the cards so nothing can get in or out. The audience member rips open this open and she herself takes from within a folded index card…which of course lists everything predicted in an amusing story.

It’s how I’ve consistently closed my corporate shows for nearly 15 years. For a $30 book (with other stuff included) it’s hard to beat…especially since the performer needs no special magic goodies or fancy sleight-of-hand skills to do it.

My only quibble with my handling is the fact that the writing is restricted to an index card, meaning you have to ‘sell’ the effect to the audience – until the card is passed around, only your onstange volunteer can read it.

So I’ve searched for ways to make the end prediction visible to a large audience…but still be one man.

For years, the holy grail of the large stage Confab solutions was/is the Prediction Chest, with an extremely popular version put out by Doug Malloy. It is fabulous but relies on an off stage assistant.

Since then, I’ve found two fantastic solutions that I now love…Paul Romhany’s wonderful (and low tech) “Dream Prediction Lite” and Scott Alexander & Puck’s wonderful “MIB.” Both are great solutions to do a larger one man Confab routine.

Now, this article is NOT intended as a pitch (well, maybe for my books…) but only to illustrate how, depending on performing conditions, you MAY need to alter your methods. I now use my simple FedEx envelope handling for audiences up to 30 people, Paul Romhany’s “Dream Prediction Lite” for audiences of 30-70 people and “MIB” for audiences typically over 70 people.

Although I’d prefer to use just one handling, by tailoring which version I use, I’m customizing my show to the needs of the audience. While I’ve used “MIB” for very small shows successfully (for just EIGHT PEOPLE – there was a miscommunication in the pre-show details!!) the reality is certain handlings of certain effects are intended for certain audience sizes.

Now, to circle back to my original point, I don’t feel learning 4 or 5 different handlings of the 100 Bill Switch really benefits you because you’re doing basically the same actions – folding a borrowed bill and causing it to change – and the handlings I’ve come across are so similar in methodology that my stance has always been, if you have one that works, why switch? This is not intended as a knock on any particular handlings...merely an observation that because there are so many great ones that choosing and sticking to one is really the way to go.

So, if you are going to learn a different handling of something you already do well, make sure you’re going to really benefit from it. In my case, by having different Confab methods in my arsenal, I choose the one based on performing conditions.

Above all else, master ONE good handling before the next. I remember Eugene Burger telling a story about a Chicago magician who had an extremely small repertoire – only 12 tricks or so – but Eugene emphasized that he had thoroughly MASTERED each one.

Finally, have FUN!

- Cris

Cris Johnson’s website, www.ProfessionalMagicProducts.com, offers both professional magic routines, trainings, and equipment as well as business-building tools to help you take your career to the next level!

David Blaine and Criss Angel on TV

2014-01-08T07:50:00.000-08:00

Hello all!

As promised, this blog will no longer ONLY be about magic trick reviews although I will have them. In reality, I want to make this more well-rounded, so with that in mind, one thing I wanted to touch upon in this was some random thoughts on Magic On TV.

I saw David Blaine's Real or Magic TV special a couple of weeks after it aired, online. Overall, I feel it was an OK special. Blaine continues to be very polarizing - some people love him as evidenced by the continued craze of "street magic" effects, props, routines, etc. that continue to crop up on magic product websites.

Blaine was a trailblazer in his heyday and really did usher in a new era for magic. Whether that's good or bad is up to you. Personally, I respect the guy for showing magic can succeed on TV without a multi-million dollar production like David Copperfield. Like other people, I thought Blaine's "levitation" on his first TV special was very dishonest, but that's TV.

In "Real or Magic," the hook this time was that the majority of the time his spectators were celebrities. Harrison Ford probably had the funniest reaction as he told Blaine to "Get the **** out of my house." Will Smith and his family were featured many times and it was startling to me just how much Smith's charisma came bursting through the TV even though it wasn't "his" show.

Nevertheless, with most of Blaine's effects, I had a feeling of "been there, done that." Blaine big effect was shoving a needle through his arm. If you haven't seen the special, it was NOT accomplished like Harry Anderson's version of the effect as this looked like it was so deep that it appeared to go through the bone. Was it real? Since Blaine does a lot of "endurance" stunts, his goal with this effect was to leave people guessing.

In my humble opinion, Blaine's biggest problem continues to be a lack of charisma. While he tries to come off as morose or creepy, I often just find him boring, even though he clearly has a great amount of skill.

I also recently caught a few episodes of Criss Angel's show "BeLIEve." To preface this, I've never been a Criss Angel fan. In particular, his Mindfreak episode with hypnosis made me angry as his use of it could have seriously injured people. Even if the hypnotized subjects were all plants, the show still showed hypnosis in a negative light, making it difficult for guys like me to convince clients that hypnosis is not evil, dangerous, etc. So I don't like Criss Angel for that reason.

On to "BeLIEve..."

The episode I caught the tale end of was the one where Criss is trying to literally raise the dead! There was a corpse wheeled into a room, a group of solemn-looking onlookers, psychics, doctors, etc. There was a death certificate, etc. People freaked out when the corpse's heart started beating and blood or some such oozed out of the mouth...to the point that some people ran out of the room.

Was it in bad taste? Of course. But the whole premise (that a doctor of any kind would sign off on this) was so silly that I found it quite funny. Rather than being "edgy," I just found it laughable and pathetic. I love Bizarre magic as much as the next guy, but this was just over the top awful.

Another episode I saw was devoted to levitation and the big stunt was Criss was going to levitate retired NBA player Shaq. When it came time for the big levitation, Shaq not only levitated but he floated so high in the air that he was able to float OVER Criss' house and back down. There were close-up camera shots right next to Shaq as he crossed the roof, etc.

So now we're getting into a way of presenting "magic" that does not even try to hide that it's done in a way that could not be replicated on stage or in public. Blaine caused an uproar over using peoples' reactions to the Balducci self-levitation spliced in with shots of him floating in the air via cables by a crane, etc. I wasn't too fond of it myself.

But Criss' show is total fiction and it doesn't try to hide it as he presents "magic" that is far too fantastical to believe he could do it in the settings he presents it. Is this good for magic?

It depends on your view. Personally, I felt like I was watching special effects, like something from the "Avengers" or "Iron Man." If you enjoy it, great, but Iron Man only exists onscreen. My view of magic as an artform is that it should be performed for real people, not "in the know," whether that's a stage or on the street. Once you take that away and have everyone in the scene "in on it," you don't have a performance art you have special effects and while special effects are awesome, it's just not the same thing.

In the next blog entry, I will review the great MIB effect from Puck & Scott Alexander.

Don't forget - the 50% off sale on my stuff at www.ProfessionalMagicProducts.com ends at the end of January!

til next time...

Cris

Holiday SALE on ALL Cris Johnson Products!

2013-12-13T08:31:00.002-08:00

Starting TODAY (December 13, 2013) until NEXT FRIDAY (December 20, 2013), you can take 25% off of ANY of my (Cris Johnson) products!

Simply email me at crisjohnsoninfo@verizon.net and let me know what you're interested in. I will then email you your discounted total along with shipping charges.

You can then Paypal me the total to crisjohnsoninfo@verizon.net and I'll rush your goodies right out to you. Take advantage of my holiday madness now.:)

A New Look and A New Mindset

2013-12-13T07:34:00.001-08:00

I'm back!

Earlier this year I wrote the final review of Trick Talk, my review column for Hocus Pocus. At that time, I was buying magic just for the sake of doing reviews. that was never the spirit of what this blog was supposed to be as I only wanted to review tricks and routines that I used in my professional work.

Since then, I've had a lot of cool ideas, my mindset has shifted and more. While I am relaunching the blog, it will not be strictly as a review blog. As the new subtitle suggests, it will be encompassing a whole lot more. I will indeed be doing reviews, but they will not be weekly as I do not want to lock myself into that format. The stuff I review will only be the material I buy for my own work.

Also, I've changed the name of the blog to avoid confusion with the current incarnation of the Hocus Pocus blog. Nevertheless, ALL of my reviews from the Trick Talk blog are still archived and are immediately accessible.

As far as new reviews go, some of the upcoming reviews include:

MIB - Message in a Bottle by Puck and Scott Alexander
The Final Cut by Bob Kohler and Scott Alexander
Cue The Magic
Mentalities 2-DVD set
The 100th Monkey
5-Card Box by Bill Abbott

All of these are items I purchased for my own shows and most of them have already made their way into my paid shows.

Other times, this blog will contain thoughts of a philosophical nature, business building tips, and more.

Stay Tuned for my next post which will cover my thoughts of Criss Angel's show BeLIEve and David Blaine's recent TV special.

Finally, this blog is now attached to www.ProfessionalMagicProducts.com, which is my new product site, containing all of my releases to the magic community as well as products from other working pros including:

Paul Romhany
Peter Loughran
Bobby Motta
Jim Kleefeld

To make this site stand out from many other sites, I'm implementing a store policy of rewards points: simply put, each time you make a purchase from this site, ANY purchase, you'll receive 1 Store Point for every $5 you spend. Points never expire and once you accumulate enough points, you can have ANY product of MINE (Cris Johnson) absolutely FREE. And my product site includes items no longer available anywhere else, including Murder By Magic!

So bookmark this blog and stop by often!

- Til next time

Cris

The Final REVIEW: Mental Deceptions Vol. 2

2013-03-27T18:39:00.001-07:00

Hi all,

Welcome to the LAST installment of my blog, at least for the immediate future. In the last installment, I outlined my past with Rick Maue and the positive influence he’s had on my career.

With that in mind, I cannot even pretend to be objective in last week’s review or this one. If you ever read this, Rick, thank you. And as you always say (and I remember the origin of the reference) I will indeed keep the change.

My review of volume 2 of Mental Deceptions DVDs starts after the ad copy…

AD COPY: Despite over four decades of magic and mentalism experience, Rick Maue has always managed to remain a bit elusive...until now! On this DVD set, Rick presents a number of his signature pieces, as well as several unreleased items, with many of the effects coming from his working repertoire.

Mental Deceptions is loaded with strong mentalism for stand-up or close-up performances and remarkably, none of the effects require expensive gimmicks or props - just everyday items such as envelopes, poker chips, paper, playing cards, etc. (It's why Michael Weber dubbed Rick "OfficeMax Maven.")

What's more, no sleight of hand is required. Rick calls it VdM Magic - material that's so technically easy that the Venus De Milo could perform it! In other words, everything is well within the technical reach of every performer.

You'll also be able to step inside the mind of Rick Maue during informative interview segments conducted by magician Francis Menotti. You'll see for yourself why Marc DeSouza once asked Rick, "Why is it that when I see you lecture, I feel like I am watching a mad scientist at work?"

THOUGHTS ON Volume Two:

* Beyond The Witching Hour – A bit of Spirit Communication that also teaches a very useful utility move for the everyday worker who wants to move the hands of a watch.

MY THOUGHTS – I remember Rick showing this to me at a lecture in Pittsburgh, PA. Despite doing it super slowly, as my eyes burned him, I could not catch the move. This is so brilliant, and so impossible to catch. One of the best methods of covertly moving the hands of a watch ever created.

* The Final Picture – Whether on stage, doing close-up, performing a séance, or working impromptu, this is the piece that Rick has performed more than all of his other creations combined.

MY THOUGHTS – as with all of Rick’s creations, this is super simple in terms of technical work. The way Rick does a lot of the stuff in this routine will make you feel like a Jedi by the way he uses non-verbal deception and simple hand gestures to influence the volunteer in certain ways.

* Animal Instincts – A close-up prediction effect that relies on human instincts.

MY THOUGHTS – The end of this routine came as a complete surprise, a cool kicker type ending people just don’t see coming. That being said, this is a somewhat lengthy routine so this is NOT something you can do table to table or strolling. It’s a routine in which you’d need a table. Consider it a routine for formal closeup sessions, such as a private party for a small group of people, less than 10, for the best venue for this routine.

* In The Neighborhood – A simplistic version of “Out of This World”…but it doesn’t use playing cards!

MY THOUGHTS – This is a fun “Sorting” type routine, as the title suggests, and is slightly similar to Out of This World. The best part is the fact that this routine uses poker chips rather than playing cards and the way the routine unfolds is a complete surprise. The working is exceedingly simple and the working is similar to Rick’s terrific Fate? Routine. I really like this.

* Abstract Extraction (Francis Menotti) – A strange effect that make brainwaves visible to the human eye.

MY THOUGHTS – I remember reading Penn & Teller’s “How To Play In Traffic” book and reading about a similar effect. This is fun, easy and most assuredly something different which is always nice in a collection of mental effects. Francis Menotti presents this, and though I’d never heard of him before watching this DVD set, he’s definitely someone I intend to keep an eye on for future releases.

* Defining The Difference – A strong bit of mentalism that demonstrates the difference between a magician and a mentalist.

MY THOUGHTS – Shades of Annemann in this routine and wow, what an effect! I was blown away by the mentalism part of the routine. As past readers of my blog know, I’m not big on card effects in either magic or mentalism, so it takes a lot to make me sit up and take notice. It’s not that I’m against cards in mentalism, but merely that many card effects bore me. This routine, however, is one I may add to my set list!

* Focus / Sixth Sense Symbols – A three-phase routine that looks and feels like real mindreading. It appears impossible, because it almost is…unless you know the secret.

MY THOUGHTS – This routine was really the only disappointment on the entire 2-disk set. The routine itself was incredibly powerful and very cool, but the method, while easy like Rick’s other stuff, is not something I am able to use due to the nature of how I do my shows. I have to be intentionally vague due to avoid exposure.

* The Journey – A stand-up piece that has fooled some of the best minds in mentalism. It’s strong and versatile, and like almost all of Rick’s creations, everything that you need comes from a regular office supply store.

MY THOUGHTS – This routine is one of the best pieces for stage mentalism I’ve ever seen. It was stunning, and was so strong I could only think of stooges as a way for the solution to work…happily, I was wrong and I can’t wait to add this to my set. Trust me, the DVD set is worth the price for this one routine.

Thank you all for the support over the years! As always, if you have any questions about anything, email me at crisjohnsoninfo@verizon.net.

Special Announcement & REVIEW: Mental Deceptions DVD 1 by Rick Maue

2013-03-20T18:46:00.000-07:00

Hello readers!

This is going to be a memorable blog entry for one particular reason. First, a few updates on what I’ve been doing lately…

First, I had a GREAT stage hypnosis show this past weekend in Nebraska for a repeat client – actually it’s the third time I’ve served this client. It was great fun! Then disaster struck as my flight was canceled going home, but the airline put me up at a Hilton because I was not going to be able to fly out til the next day. Stressful but at least the hotel was nice!

Also, the hypnosis clinic that I opened is doing more and more biz – on average, I’m now seeing 12 clients a week which is pretty good considering I just opened the doors in January. Honestly, it’s incredibly rewarding work because I get to help people overcome unhealthy habits.

While I certainly do not expect to ever STOP performing, as I LOVE performing, I really feel that in the next few years I will be transitioning to a part time performing career and devoting more of my energies to hypnosis.

Partially it’s because the work is so rewarding and partially, after 10 years living out of hotels and suitcases, I’m tired of the travel. While I LOVE performing, I’m tired of the crappy hotels and the endless hours of driving. The loneliness on the road. I want to be home and while there is a good healthy amount of repeat clients I do close to home that do not involve hotel stays or airport travel, the fact is I find hypnosis to be endlessly fascinating…

And that leads me to the special announcement…next week will probably be my LAST review for some time. As I get my hypnosis biz up and running, it’s a juggling act between serving both my performing career as well as my hypnosis. Couple that with the fact that I simply don’t NEED new magic in my life. That’s not to say that I don’t WANT new magic…like many of you, I still get that thrill when the new package arrives in the mail, the flutter of excitement when, after the appropriate amount of practice, that I feel “This is ready for an audience,” and so on.

However, I currently have 6 elementary school shows, 4 high school theme shows, 4 corporate motivational/educational shows, 3 corporate holiday party shows, 2 stage hypnosis shows, a few themed day care shows, a family night show…and probably a few shows I’m forgetting about…what this means it’s hard keeping track of all of that stuff. It’s also hard pulling something out of a given show that works and taking a chance replacing it with something you’re not sure of. This is a subject Doc Dixon wrote about in one of his books and it really rang true for me.

What this means is with all the different shows that I do, I have a massive list of effects I need to ‘stay up’ on – making sure any sleight of hand is sharp, stage blocking, scripting etc is all sharp in mind and muscle memory. In short, because of all the different shows I offer, I don’t relish the idea of learning new material. As a full timer, I have never understood how some part timers and even some full timers can create a new lineup of effects for one specific audience…the transitions between effects and the overall ‘arc’ of the show must be considered, at least to me. I understand even less how some full timers (many of whom I respect)create a brand new library show each year for the summer, as that’s only three month run of anywhere from 50 -150 shows. To me, after I do a show 50-60 times, I feel I’m just starting to get really COMFORTABLE with the show. But that’s just me.:)
I only mention all of this because when I started writing this blog, my goal was to review effects & releases that I had actually used in my show and thus could comment on from a real world perspective. As time has gone on, I have not been able to do that nearly as much as in years past. So I feel like I’ve been giving less than 100% to this blog.

So, at least for now, I’m stepping away.

This week I shall review DVD #1 of Rick Maue’s Mental Deceptions from L&L. I’ll finish up with DVD #2 next week. Before I get into the review, I must also mention that it’s kind of appropriate that my last review is of Rick Mause’s DVDs. I first met Rick Maue when I was living in Jeannette, PA, which is about 30-45 minutes outside of Pittsburgh, PA, where Rick lives.

I went to a local gathering Rick was hosting – a series of lectures by several great performers, such as Alain Nu. But even with some of the “A” listers present, I was captivated most by Rick’s lecture – his explanations revealed that he intended his stuff for the real world and had fine-tuned everything in the real world. It felt authentic.

I got to know Rick a little bit at a few other events, including a great lecture by Paul Gertner that was a lot of fun. I also bought his Haunted Magick book and a few other things over the years.

Eventually, Rick wound up inviting me to his house for a tour of his Haunted Tour built into his house. It was breathtakingly cool for someone who first got into magic because of weird and Bizarre magic. Rick also shared some great business advice with me – stuff I’ve carried with me to this very day, and I feel like he’s part of the reason why I make over $100,000 per year in magic.

I owe Rick a lot, but mostly I’m thankful to him for his kindness and generosity and frankly, he was one of the first magicians who taught me that not all magicians are to considered untrustworthy!! (True I’ve met others, but 15 years ago in Pittsburgh, I hadn’t met any by that point!!)

I know of and understand the reasons why Rick no longer performs. I’m just SO thankful some of his best stuff is preserved on a great 2-disk L&L set. I won’t even try to remain objective with these reviews. Thank you, Rick, for being such a great performer, creator…and mostly for being a great human being. This week I’ll cover DVD #1 and next week, obviously, DVD #2.

AD COPY: Despite over four decades of magic and mentalism experience, Rick Maue has always managed to remain a bit elusive...until now! On this DVD set, Rick presents a number of his signature pieces, as well as several unreleased items, with many of the effects coming from his working repertoire.

Mental Deceptions is loaded with strong mentalism for stand-up or close-up performances and remarkably, none of the effects require expensive gimmicks or props - just everyday items such as envelopes, poker chips, paper, playing cards, etc. (It's why Michael Weber dubbed Rick "OfficeMax Maven.")

What's more, no sleight of hand is required. Rick calls it VdM Magic - material that's so technically easy that the Venus De Milo could perform it! In other words, everything is well within the technical reach of every performer.

You'll also be able to step inside the mind of Rick Maue during informative interview segments conducted by magician Francis Menotti. You'll see for yourself why Marc DeSouza once asked Rick, "Why is it that when I see you lecture, I feel like I am watching a mad scientist at work?"

EFFECT-BY-EFFECT BREAKDOWN…

Heads & Tales – This is Rick’s opener. As the name would suggest, it revolves around the toss of a coin. But besides the 50/50 shot, there is so much going on here. Rick has woven so much great stuff in this routine that it’s breathtaking. Additionally, Rick uses this opener to set up his closer, which is truly poetic. The idea of a 50/50 decision between two possibilities may not sound like much, but what is so impressive is the way Rick has added possibly severe consequences to the idea of getting this simple choice “wrong.” Also, this is really great as it gives me a possible opening to a theme show for colleges I’ve been thinking of putting together for years.

Group Dynamic – This in some ways is a chair routine but the method and structure of the routine goes beyond a chair routine and despite the use of a well-known concept in mentalism, Rick nonetheless camouflaged it and the method flew right past me. The best thing? Once you do just a few minutes of prep work, you can carry the materials for this routine in your pocket for an anytime, anywhere chair routine.

Reverse Roulette – FINALLY, a completely safe “danger” type routine! This routine, despite being so easy from a technical standpoint, is camouflaged so well and fooled me completely. No angle problems, no danger…it’s awesome. I should point put that this routine does not involve knives or spikes but rather household products! Additionally, there is no ‘acid’ used like in some routines so there is no ‘proving’ phase which can slow down so many routines of this type.

The Hole Card – A stand up routine with 5 cards using again a well-known classic of mentalism in terms of methodology. Completely fooled me. Simple and worth a look.

Mixed Emotions – this is strong, mainly because it uses emotions as the hook for the whole routine. Very cool routine.

Body Language – This is THE ultimate chair routine! I categorized Group Dynamic as a chair routine because volunteers sit in chairs, but this routine is a true chair routine in that the positions of ALL the participants is involved for the routine’s climax. This routine is just so good, and once again, this routine is something you can do anywhere, anytime with any chairs. There’s no angle problems, no preparation of the chairs themselves and the ‘work’ is almost automatic.

In short, what happens is several volunteers are given a free choice of several envelopes. Each envelope has a slip of paper in it that says “stand” or “sit.” Despite the envelopes not being marked (and they truly are NOT marked), a second group of volunteers sits down in a second row of chairs. The mentalist touches those volunteers he wishes to stand and others he has remain seated. The volunteers who selected envelopes open their envelopes and those who have the “stand” envelopes stand…and the pattern of volunteers standing and sitting is exactly matched by the second group. It’s extremely visual, different and very cool!

Focused Thoughts / Dichotomy – two very card effects that show viewers some cool techniques. Good stuff.

FATE? – This effect was released as a stand-alone piece years ago, and I’ve been using it to great effect for years. Like Group Dynamic, you can see Fate? Performed in its entirety in video previews on Youtube. It’s a multi-phase prediction routine involving volunteers and what color poker chip each selects and the kicker ending just brings everything up another level. No angle issues and technically very easy. The multi-revelations adds several moments to the routine as opposed to just one payoff as with other routines. Very cool.

There are also interviews on performing philosophy, utility moves and so much more. Honestly, this 2-DVD set could have been easily expanded to a 3 or 4 DVD set. GREAT value and sooooooooooooooooooo underpriced.

15 out of 10!

NEXT WEEK: DVD 2.

REVIEW: Mugged by Rich Marrotta

2013-03-06T18:23:00.006-08:00

Hello, all!

Before I get into this week’s review, I wanted to touch base on a few effects that I reviewed in the past and how things are fairing now that they are in my active performing sets.

The first is Peter Loughran’s Splattered which is an updated, more modern looking Square Circle. I had the opportunity to use it for seven performances in New York City this past week. Using it for grades K-4, I had a unique opportunity to perform for different age levels. In other words, I did one show for grade 1, another show for grade 2 and so on, meaning I was really able to pinpoint how certain ages of kids reacted. Fortunately, they all loved it.

While Splattered can enable users to produce a multitude of different things, I went with simplicity – I produced a 6 foot colorful streamer and then produced a 6 foot square dragon silk.
So, after several uses and several months of performing, culminating with this past week, Splattered remains a helluva keeper.

The next relatively new effect that I reviewed a while back that I want to touch upon is another Peter Loughran effect, Creature Shock. This effect is SO fun! At the aforementioned school, I performed at, I was able to perform Creature Shock four times. I did not perform it for anyone younger than grade 2, because I was worried about scaring the little guys.:)

Once again, the effect ROCKED. I was able to perform it several times over the last few months, but performing it multiple times for one client in one day was really cool!
OK, now on to this week’s review: Mugged by Rich Marrotta. It’s available for $89.95 from Hocus Pocus.

AD COPY: Mugged by Rich Marotta is finally back on the market after a lengthy absence. And boy, are we glad. It's always been a HOT SELLER, because it's contemporary, it's surprising and, quite frankly, it's hilarious!

Straight out of Rich Marotta's comedy act comes the story of a mugger's efforts to rob a magician and how the robber's attempt is foiled due to the magician's skill.

The performer relates a story of how he was robbed on the way to his performance. He shows the audience the mugger's ski mask, then proceeds to reenact the crime. He drops his money, watch, and ring into the mask. But of course, the mugger didn't know that his victim was a magician!

The performer turns the ski mask inside out - and WHAM, it's completely EMPTY!

Suddenly, the ring is seen to be back on the performer's finger, the watch is on his wrist, and the money is back in his wallet, thus averting a potential calamity!

This newly updated version of Mugged by Rich Marotta comes complete with everything you'll need to perform this audience-beloved effect, including detailed instructions and updated accessories, including the hand-made, specially constructed ski mask, watch, ring and instructional DVD!

DIFFICULTY: This effect is really easy, probably one of the easiest versions of this effect out there. I saw Tommy Wonder’s version on the L&L videos and also loved it but the ‘how-to’ of that version is challenging to put together, putting it mildly. This version is VERY simple.

QUALITY OF PROPS: The mask is well-built but my biggest issue is the fact that Rich no longer makes them in red, but instead makes them black. From a staging standpoint, this means from a distance it may be difficult to see that it is in fact a black mask and not just a black hat.
The supplied watch and ring is perfectly fine for the purpose of the effect. The supplied wallet is better in quality than the old plastic billfold-type one Rich used to sell with the effect, but by supplying a hip wallet with this routine, my opinion is that from a staging standpoint, it may not be as visible from a slight distance.

Knowing the reputation of this effect and in particular the supplied wallet from years ago, I ordered a superior wallet just for this routine…mostly because I like nice props.:)

QUALITY OF INSTRUCTION: The supplied written instructions and supplied DVD is adequate, but barely. Honestly, the instructions are skimpy to say the least. Fortunately, the effect is very easy to do, so adequate instructions will serve you.

ANGLES: With the exception of one move, the effect can easily be performed surrounded. The one move can also be masked (no pun intended) quite easily so angles are good for most parlor or stage situations.

MY THOUGHTS: This is one of those effects I wanted 15 years or so ago when I first saw it advertised in the magazines. The simple description sounded so impossible, with the money, ring and watch “instantly” reappearing in the magician’s possession. Years later, with several years experience under my belt, I still enjoyed watching Rich’s demo of the effect on the video.
For the asking price of the effect, you get a well-constructed routine that is organic and makes sense. All of the props fit the routine and there is motivation for everything.
The props and the instruction are not of the highest quality, but they will serve you just fine.
9/10. A good value for what you will pay.

REVIEW: Blank Night by John Archer

2013-02-27T19:03:00.001-08:00

Hi all,

Whew! The last week has been CRAZY - I had 6 school shows scheduled in Michigan, with 2 schools a day, Monday thru Weds this week. Monday went off without a hitch, but then the weather reports said the town I was in was going to get covered in snow. The school contact was concerned about getting hit with a "snow day" so we came up with a revised schedule to cram 4 schools in one day...which is something I've never done before. My show usually requires 30 minutes to set up and break down, and factoring in the performances, travel time between buildings, lunch periods at schools...anyway it was an adventure!

On to this month's review:

It's Blank Night by John Archer! It's available for $24.99 from Hocus Pocus.

AD COPY: We are so excited to be able to offer John Archer's Blank Night!

Penn and Teller's hit show Fool Us had a simple premise: perform an effect that the duo couldn't figure out. Only two magicians fooled Penn & Teller in the initial show, and one of those was John Archer. He did so with a smart, simple routine called "Blank Night," and Vanishing Inc. Magic is proud to release it.

"Blank Night" comes complete with everything you need to add it to your next show. Five envelopes are shown and you explain that one of them contains a prize of $100 (use any amount or currency). Audience members choose four of the five envelopes but discover they have only won small consolation prizes (such as a $0 bill, or nothing at all).

Without any suspicious moves, the final envelope is clearly opened to reveal $100 inside! The bills are not folded and are seen clearly being pulled from inside the envelope. No body loads, envelope switches or thumb-tips. "Blank Night" left both Penn and Teller speechless!

Comes complete with detailed, fully-illustrated instruction booklet, specially-manufactured envelopes and gimmicks. Envelopes come blank so that you can write whatever words you would like on them.

QUALITY OF INSTRUCTIONS: The instructions are well-written, with some good humor slipped in by Archer. He has a unique writing style and best of all, it's easy to understand.

ANGLES: The routine is best for audiences in front of you. If you're 3/4 surrounded, you can pull it off but its going to be tough. And if you're surrounded completely? As I have said in other reviews, if you're surrounded performing magic, you're in hell.:)

MY THOUGHTS: The first time I saw this routine was when I bought Archer's Further Education DVDs. I was blown away and feel it's probably the best Bank Night method I've ever seen, because the image of the full stack of unfolded bills coming out of the envelope left at the end is not only a real magician-fooler but also a great visual display for a lay audiemce, giving them more to look at than a tiny folded up bill in a teeny pay envelope.

Additionally, Archer's method is simple to do so with a bit of practice, you'll have this down in no time. To me, the best commercial stuff out there (as in commercial - performing to make money as a pro) is usually technically easy, which gives the performer the freedom to concentrate on performance. At least, I know that's what I prefer.:)

Archer's script is not included, meaning if you buy this product, you're on your own in terms of presentation.

So, the question is - if you already have the Further Education DVDs, do you need this? My opinion is yes, as this saves you the hassle of making the gimmick yourself. I've been told the envelopes required for this are hard to find. I've never tried locating them as I'm really lazy when it comes to building my own props. With this release, I'm ready to go and I love it.

HIGHLY recommended - 10/10

NEXT WEEK: Mugged

Bill Abbott's Pack Smart Table and REVIEW: Rubik's Nightmare by Michael Lam

2013-02-15T18:16:00.000-08:00

Hello all,

Before I get to the Hocus Pocus review, I want to mention a killer item from Bill Abbott - his Pack Smart Table.

Basically, The Pack Smart Table has a telescoping stand, is very sturdy, and looks great on stage. Additionally, both the stand and table top will easily fit into a briefcase, making travel a cinch!

What can the table be used for? Well, I myself use it currently for my Pro Viper. It's set up on the table back stage and is ready to go. You could use it for a Zombie routine or just about any routine where you need a flat surface. You can use it for close up work too. The sky's the limit!

In a nutshell, I LOVE this. Additionally, Bill's customer service is unreal. My table came with a scratch on the underside and despite the fact that I would be the only one who ever saw it, Bill replaced it at no charge.

Check out Bill's site - www.billabbottmagic.com.

OK, on to this week's review - Rubik's Nightmare by Michael Lam. It's available for $45.00 from Hocus Pocus.

AD COPY: Michael Lam, an Asia star of magic, frequents on Major CCTV channels among Asia regions. For the very first time in ten years, he is revealing the full work of his Rubik's Nightmare routine.

Rubik's Nightmare is a two-phase professional routine directly from Michael's TV repertoire. Gimmickless. Angle proof. NO you do NOT need to know how to solve a Rubik's cube to learn this. Michael has done his work to sand it down and simplify the process. With multi-angle step by step instruction, you'll be performing Rubik's Nightmare in no time.

Rubik's Nightmare is not a trick. It's a professional routine that's designed to kill even in the toughest live TV environment. A great addition to your repertoire and for TV exposure.

If you are looking for a polished material that packs small, and proves to play HUGE, Rubik's Nightmare is your answer!

Full TV routine included.

WHAT YOU RECEIVE: You receive an extremely well produced DVD and a black cloth bag to transport the cubes. Yes, this means you’ll need to purchase the Rubik’s Cubes needed for the routine.

QUALITY OF INSTRUCTION: The well produced DVD does an exceptional job of teaching the routine, especially the somewhat complex second ‘instant solve’ phase, and includes over-the-shoulder camera shots to make learning the routine easier.

DIFFICULTY: The first phase of the routine, where the audience volunteer mixes a cube and you rapidly match it with a second cube, is very easy and very practical. I was stunned by the ease of this and very excited.

The second phase of the routine, the ‘instant solve’ phase, is fascinating because it looks so damn good! This phase is definitely more complex in terms of difficulty. It does require memory work. It’s not a lot, but consider yourself warned. In terms of how this part of the routine is accomplished, it’s similar to another method out there, though not exactly the same.

Additionally, both phases utilize ungimmicked cubes, meaning once you know the secret, you can put the routine together anywhere, meaning if you ever lose your gear, you can run to a store and put together this routine…and yes, despite what some folks on the Café have said, I have recently seen the mini cubes in stores.

SIZE OF AUDIENCE: Because the first phase of the routine relies on seeing the nuances of the cube colors in different orders, and because the routine handling requires the use of a min Rubik’s Cube, the routine is really only suited for very small parlor situations. I would say it’s not applicable for strolling because of the re-set (at least for the second, instant-solve phase).

ANGLES: Angles are pretty well covered, so if you are doing a casual living room style show or similar situation, you should be fine.

MY THOUGHTS: I really like this release! It’s practical, well thought out and in terms of the unique nature of the first phase of the effect, it’s something very different. Really, the only drawback is finding a venue, as it’s really designed for only up to a dozen people and not really great for strolling magic.

FINAL REVIEW: I’ll give this an 8 out of 10…I’d rate it a perfect ten, but due to visibility and the fact that it’s not really good for a traditional ‘strolling’ closeup gig, the routine has some limitations….but it really is super.

Cool New Music Controller and REVIEW: Hanky Panky by Scott Alexander & Puck

2013-02-04T19:50:00.003-08:00

Greetings, loyal readers!

Before I get to this week’s review of a stellar trick, I also want to let you in on a REALLY cool way to control your music remotely. Long-time readers of this blog know that I’ve been using Sound Control for the last few years. It was a great little device put out by Jim Kleefeld and was an economical way to control your music, as it was essentially a remote control for your iPod. I love mine and still have two units.

Jim recently tipped a new music controller to me and at first I resisted, as Sound Control was working so well for me, but the more I read about this new unit, the more intrigued I became as it offered several details that Sound Control didn’t, and a few of the little bugs in Sound Control have been worked out.

It’s called Ultimate Control and it includes an mp3 player and remote and once you understand how this little guy works, you’ll see it ROCKS. It is NOT an off-the-shelf product re-worked for entertainers…it was designed and built from the ground up for one-person entertainers like me.
I’ve used it in 25 or so shows so far this year and I LOVE it. Brian offers killer customer support as I had some trouble with it at first…because I didn’t watched the instructional videos all the way through! Brian is a class act and was very patient with me. This gets my highest recommendation and at $450, is very reasonably priced for the working professional. I don’t make a dime off of this but simply want to pass the word along.

You can check it out at http://www.happieamp.com/ultimatecontrol.html

On to this week’s review…it’s Hanky Panky by Scott Alexander & Puck. It’s available for $175 from Hocus Pocus. Here’s the ad copy:

This trick packs small and plays HUGE!

Hanky Panky utilizes a classic premise that has stood the test of time, but Scott and Puck have updated it for a modern audience. It's the 20th Century Silks on steroids!

The five minute routine not only features stunning visual magic, but also has a kicker finale that involves hilarious audience participation and comedy. It is the perfect opener to music, which then evolves into an audience interactive piece, allowing you to showcase your wit and personality.

With the added bonus of the killer Prisoner's Silk Ending, this is a complete package that can easily find its way into any working pros arsenal.

The kit has everything included. The DVD provides a detailed explanation of our routine, as well as some tips for effective audience management when performing this visual magic and its killer finale.

WHAT YOU GET: Several very high quality silks, including about the best set of 20th Century Silks I’ve ever seen. You also receive the instructional DVD with a live performance of Scott performing this in front of a cruise ship audience.

QUALITY OF INSTRUCTION: Simply the best. Both Scott and Puck are on here, each teaching different elements of the routine. What I like most about this (besides the clear directions of the effect itself) are the professional touches…the little tips, tricks and techniques that shave months of the ‘learning curve’ of a new routine. They’ve honed this through hundreds of performances and it shows. Any time I receive this kind of instruction for a single effect, I feel as though I’m attending a master class in magic.

QUALITY OF PROPS: As I mentioned earlier, the silks included are all of the highest quality.

DIFFICULTY: One of the reasons why I did not jump on this when it first came out is because, while watching the demo video, I was convinced that the set up for that killer finale had to be something insanely impractical for a guy like me...Iean, come on – Puck and Scott are on cruise ships with fancy lighting, etc.

Boy was I wrong.

Not only is the set up much easier than I thought (I never read Rices!) but there are no complicated body loads, sleeving or anything like that. To be sure, this is NOT a close up effect, but even a school show performer who has horrendous lighting conditions (like me) will be able to do this. Additionally, the re-set does not look to be too bad, either.

MY OTHER THOUGHTS: I’ll be honest…another reason why I dismissed this release is because the first part of the routine was the tired old 20th Century silks. I’d quit performing that effect years ago when I went pro…it was a tired old effect, right?
No way…I actually got very good reactions for the 20th Century Silks years ago in my birthday party shows, but I guess along the way to becoming a full-timer, I got jaded like a lot of magicians and abandoned the classics. Shame on me!!

RATING: I’m delighted with this release and though it came out last year, I freely admit I’m a ‘johnnie come lately’ and will put this on the short list of my ‘fav effects of 2013.’
10 out of 10 – a steal!

Lots of Catching Up and REVIEW: Black Box by John Kennedy

2013-01-28T17:58:00.000-08:00

Hi all,

I know its been quite a while since my last post and I apologize for that. It's been crazy here...first of all, I was sick as hell right before Christmas and then again in the beginning of the new year.

I also have been seeing a lot of people in my hypnosis clinic which is where I'm putting a lot of my effort into as I'm just too worn out anymore to travel.

That being said, the new year has already brought a few interesting stories worth mentioning. In the first week of the new year, I was booked in a school for one of my educational assemblies, and I was sick as hell, and as it turned out, I forgot two props and then as I was setting up, another prop broke, so I thought I was SOL, but with an adjustment in how I set things up, I was able to fulfill my allotted time and the audience was none the wiser. There's a pretty cool lesson there.:)

I also recently had the opportunity to Skype with Paul Romhany. It's funny because he and I have been friends for years but that was the first conversation I'd ever had with him.:) It was the first of what I hope will be many...especially considering my wife Libby & I are taking a cruise to Alaska and we'll be In Vancouver near where Paul & his family live so hopefully we'll be able to meet up for dinner or something.

Paul also shared with me the details of a really cool prop I'm thinking of getting, that I've had my eye on in a long time.

On to this week's review - The Black Box by John Kennedy. It's available for $350 from Hocus Pocus.

Here's the ad copy:

Make things move, jump, and fly around anywhere in the room! There's no clue to the mystery because Black Box is hidden away from the action!

Black Box is an advanced RF remote control device for magicians. The electronics are designed and manufactured exclusively for John Kennedy Magic, enabling the unit to operate in four different modes: manual, timer, remote, and hands-free remote. There are no toe switches or body wires of any kind!

It's sleek, only 4.8" L x 1.4" W x 1.1" H (12.1 x 3.5 x 2.9 cm). Small enough to carry in your pocket and hide just about anywhere in the room you're working in.

A standard 9V battery powers the unit. The automatic sleep mode circuitry makes it literally impossible to drain the battery, even if you leave the unit turned on for weeks!

You will receive the Black Box, transmitter, and instructions. Several applications are explained, and once you start playing with it you will be inspired!

EASE OF OPERATION: Just one push of the button on the included remote is all that is needed to trigger the Black Box. I didn't experiment much with the timer aspects of the unit, as for my style of performing, I prefer to ad lib based on the response of the audience so some audiences, I may just stick to my script but other audiences, responses may be different and I may choose to go 'off script' and ad lib a bit...therefore, I'm not likely to use any kind of timer.

INSTRUCTIONS: The instructions for this prop are adequate, but by being written on a teeny tiny brochure was rather irritating. The instructions also give some routine ideas, but the instructions were so simplistic, like "You can use the Black Box to knock objects down," things like that.

BATTERIES: The Black Box operates with one 9V battery, and this was a point of contention with me because the manner in which the battery is installed pulls on the wires a bit, which would always concern me in that in time, the wires may be pulled loose, so to me, this is a design flaw.

NOISE: This is the biggest issue I had with this device. It has a LOUD buzzing sound, making this almost completely useless for my purposes - I had bought this with the idea of using it in seances, and with the way I'm planning to perform seances, I'll be in peoples' home and such and do not plan on having music on loud enough to mask the sound. For stage work this would be OK, but it's not what I bought it for.

OVERALL THOUGHTS: So, with a design flaw in how the battery is secured and an extreme loud motor, I cannot recommend this at all in close-up or even parlor situations. It'd be fine onstage assuming you have control of lighting issues, but for living room work (as depicted in the demo video) you're really out of luck unless you can think of a reason to have LOUD music playing.

5 out of 10.

Next week I review Hanky Panky by Scott Alexander & Puck.

LAST DAY for Murder By Magic and 2012 Year In Review

2012-12-30T19:27:00.002-08:00

Howdy dear readers!

I'm publishing this blog on the evening of December 30th, 2012, which means you now have ONE DAY left to invest in Murder By Magic: The Ultimate Corporate Magic Show. After that, it disappears FOREVER!

As I've done in years past, this column will focus on my "top ten" list from reviewed products in 2012. To restrict myself, I've stayed with new items, either released in 2012 or at least new to ME. I've also rated them on the basis of the quality of each item, the impact on my own performing biz and other, random, completely non-scientific methods. Additionally, all props listed here are available from Hocus Pocus - www.hocus-hocus.com. Here we go...

1. Electronic Flashbox by Peter Loughran

This was my personal top pick for the year. I dropped this into my Self-Esteem magic show for schools - as my CLOSER, no less- and the results have been incredible. People love it, the prop is 100% reliable, looks great on stage, gets a helluva reaction...what more can I ask? A stellar piece by a guy who constantly puts out great stuff. I've used it around 40 times or so in front of audiences of kids from 200-500 and it always slays them.

2. The Big Opener by Andy Nyman

This came REALLY close to being my fav pick of the year simply because it takes a LOT for a new trick/routine/prop to crack the starting line-up of my strolling/close-up magic set list. This effect, a re-invention of a classic, by Andy Nyman has earned my respect. It's now my go-to effect in my strolling set list. The old cliche of "If I only have time to do ONE effect for a group..." holds true here. While my own Perfect Corporate Opener (available in my Cause & Effects book series) is my favorite overall effect in my strolling set, I actually really enjoy using this if I only have time to do one trick for a group simply because this WILL get cheers and applause every time.

3. Briefcase Table by JL

While not a "trick" or "routine," this is nevertheless a terrific all-purpose performing case/table base for a small parlor type act or full length mentalism show. This looks great on stage, is sturdy, spacious and very professional. While I rarely can fit an entire act into this case (hey, I like big props!!) for the times and situations I could, this baby ROCKS. In particular, I had a Stress Reduction talk for a corporate group in Milwaukee earlier this month and I walked in with JUST this case and did a one hour program easily out of this sucker. Highly recommended.

4. SPOTS by Michael Ross & Bill Abbott

This rates so high on my list purely because of the awesome handling Michael provides. I always enjoy studying another pro's improvements on a classic and the handling alone warrants a good look at this release. The handling completely fools me and while the script is nothing to get excited about, the 'fool 'em factor' on this is very high.

5. Gypsy Balloon by Tony Clark

Again, this is a re-invention of a classic and brilliantly rendered for stage shows of large audiences. Beautiful, visual, elegant and an easy technical handling makes this an instant classic.

6. Multiplying Rum Bottles by Reg Donnelly & Paul Romhany

After my Harries Magic bottles got too dented and banged up from years of abuse, I got these mostly because the white bottles really 'pop' from stage in terms of visibility. After 50 or so uses this year, not only have they held up extremely well but the smooth handling ensures ease of operation. A GREAT buy, and the option of producing two Coke cups at the end can offer the buyer a cool kicker at the end.

7.Astor Epic

The Mental Epic seems to be one of the props every would-be mentalist owns and often after a person thinks they are getting 'serious' that they drop it. This release is marvelous because there is NO force of any kind and the 'dirty work' is unbelievable simple and the solution for the third revelation is a reliable mechanical marvel. The only reason it does not rate higher is because this prop hardly appears natural in any sense and thus I myself feel comfortable using - as I mix magic & mentalism effects constantly - but pure mentalists will shy away from the look of the prop.

8. The Real Deal by Paul Romhany

If you're a professional or if you WANT to be a professional, you NEED this book. Period.

9. Professional Backdrop System

When this is set up, this looks REALLY nice! The 'break down' is mere seconds, so this is really nice for the guy who has to pack up quick for another show. I certainly made fun of the instructons for this, as they are truly awful abnd laughable, but the product itself is well built and looks great. I'd rate it higher, but its very bulky and a pain to find room for in your vehicle. Still, I've used it 40 or so times since I bought it and it really does look great.

10. Jitters by Peter Loughran & Sean Bogunia

A clear labor of love on the part of both guys. This looks great, is reliable, and has the potential to be very scary! This 'speaks' to me (pun intended) because of my love of spooky and Bizarre magic. While I haven't had the opportunity to use it in a live show yet, I can rest easy knowing when the opportunity rises, I'll have an incredible toolbox of goodies to enhance a spooky performance.

Until next week, HAPPY NEW YEAR!!

Year-End Review, Murder By Magic and REVIEW: Spots DVD & Script by Michael Ross, Produced & Directed by Bill Abbott

2012-12-19T17:27:00.001-08:00

Howdy Everyone!

Cris Johnson here and I have to say I'm excited...tomorrow is my LAST show til after the New Year, so I finally get some tough off to finish setting up my wonderful new hypnosis office!

A couple of notes on upcoming reviews...next week I'll be doing my annual 'top ten' of 2012. as with years past, since I do not review ALL the new stuff out there, this list is hardly scientific or all-inclusive, but simply a list of the goodies I liked best for the year.

Then, I'll be reviewing the following: Black Box by John Kennedy, Blank Night by John Archer and Rubik's Nightmare DVD. Those of you who are regular readers of this blog, you may remember that several months ago I mentioned reviewing the Black Box. I'll admit that I've been dragging my feet on reviewing that one because I glanced at the instruction sheet and found the type size too damn small. the instructions also seemed confusing to me at first glance. So this may not bode well for the review but I'm FINALLY going to get to it!!

Also, today is December 19th, and Murder By Magic will be GONE at the end of the month so if you've been thinking about getting this, order ASAP!!!!

OK, now on to this week's review: Spots by Michael Ross and directed by Bill Abbott. It's available for $49.95 from Hocus Pocus.

AD COPY: "When I was 14 years old I saw Michael Ross perform at the anniversary party of a local magic shop here in Toronto. One of the pieces he performed was his original presentation and handling for the spot card that baffled me completely. Even though I had a version of the same prop at home, Michael seemed to make the spots appear like magic and more incredibly with audience members on all sides of him! I am so proud to offer this complete package with Norm Nielsen's beautiful handmade Dynamo spot card and Michaels unparalleled routine. I have added this routine to my show and now you can too." - Bill Abbott

The Effect
The performer explains that he will place the audience under a mild hypnotic spell and demonstrate an optical illusion in the form of a card with four(?) sides. True to form the magician proceeds to show a large black domino-like card with white spots. One spot on one side, four on the other, then three on the third(?) side and six (?) on the other! This is shown two more times and then the performer explains the psychological and manual manipulation that creates the illusion of a four sided card. Due to the way the card is held the spots are either displayed or covered by the fingers and the minds of the audience create the illusion of a four sided card. Then things get strange when the performer shows that the illusions have become a reality and spots start magically appearing at every turn of the card. Finally in one final turn of the card, it is suddenly filled with white dots bringing the routine (and hypnotic spell!) to a mind blowing conclusion!

An Introduction
The spot card has been an unsung standard in the repertoire of many professional performers, including magic superstar David Copperfield. Michael Ross, under the stage name of Merlin, has developed the perfect fusion of elegant technique and engaging performance unlike any other spot card routine. With Michael's handling you can perform this up close and completely surrounded as Michael often has in the over 30 years of performing this routine. On the street, at a house party or for 2500 on a theatre stage, Spots is truly a pack small play anywhere routine.

SPOTS Pro Package Includes:
- Printed scripts for both the adult routine and the family routine.

A 60 minute DVD featuring:

A Live Performance
Michael performs the routine for an adult audience at an intimate private party. You will experience how Spots plays for a modern audience of professionals in a house party environment.

A Personal History
Michael shares his initial inspiration for the optical illusion presentation from a Pavel effect and his discontent with the traditional spot card handling that led to SPOTS Michael's original spot card technique.

Routines, Audiences & Venues
Michael has performed this routine for every kind of audience and in every kind of environment. Children audiences, family audiences, corporate audiences, comedy clubs and even silently to music. Michael explains how he has used SPOTS as a great segue piece, a lead in into the Invisible Deck or to the Torn & Restored Newspaper effect. The idea, the premise and the patter sets everything up for the tricks he performs during his show. Michael dissects the guaranteed laugh points during the routine, how to play the optical illusion sequence to get a laugh and then how to get two steps ahead of the audience into the multiple spots.

An Audience Proven Routine
This is a not a trick that Michael has performed on dozens of show, or hundreds of shows but a staple in his repertoire he has performed for thousands of shows over the course of 30 years. Michael explains how SPOTS became an audience tested and audience proven effect over years of experience.

Why The Dynamo Card?
Initially using the Tenyo's What's Next spot card Michael explains why he switched to the Nielsen Dynamo spot card due to visibility under various stage lighting, better audience sight lines and the deceptive nature of the method at close quarters. Michael has used the Dynamo card in 5,000 seat venues and up close in house party venues, and it works these environments and everything in between.

The SPOTS Method & Handling
Michael shows how the standard handling and method for the spot card had to be re-worked to achieve the impact that he wanted the trick to have on his audiences. He explains how to hold the card so it doesn't block the audience's view of your face and how to be sure everyone can view the changes and transformations from any angle, even from behind! The surrounded handling is explained and demonstrated so that all the secret movements become invisible no matter where your audience is situated. Even if you don't ever perform this surrounded Michael explains why learning the 'surrounded technique' makes for a better rehearsal experience and overall theatrical competence. Vertical and horizontal positioning of the card for psychological reasons is clarified and explained to get maximum impact from the audiences viewpoint. Getting precise spot movement and how to adjust on the fly if needed is demonstrated in detail.

Walk-Through from The Performers View
A complete routine sequence from the performer's point of view to nail the necessary hand positions perfectly for rehearsal. Every nuance of how to perform the routine and the important "why's" of every aspect are also explained.

Practice Sequence from the Front & from Behind
The routine sequence performed silently from the front (audience view) and then from behind (performer's view), to practice along with. This will help you get the hand positions into your physical memory and get you up and running that much faster.

Adding Glue or Wax to Perfect Your Technique
Michael explains how he used drops of glue or wax when he first performed the routine to help line up the spots by feel under fire. This may be of great help when adapting the routine into your repertoire for the first few performances.

Adult Routine Studio Performance
The entire routine utilizing the adult script (included) is performed for the camera in the studio.

Family Routine Studio Performance
The complete family routine with family script (included) is performed for the camera in the studio.

Set-Up & Prop Placement
Pre-show spot set-up for both sides of the cards and how to get the card in and out of the bag without upsetting the set-up. How and where to place the card before your performance to ensure a safe, secure and exposure-free placement of the prop.

Care & Cleaning
Using the card's felt carrying case Michael shows how to get rid of unwanted fingerprints on the card before performance that sometimes show up under stage lighting.

Conversation with Bill Abbott
Bill Abbott and Michael Ross discuss their professional relationship over the years and how Michael's performance of SPOTS made a strong impact on Bill early on in his performance career. A wide variety of topics are touched on and commented on including; performance commitment vs. strong material, how audiences sometimes resent applause cues, producing laughs by expressing an audience's inner thoughts, letting an audience enjoy the moment, SPOTS as a 'tester' routine for audiences, and much, much more.

NOTE: The SPOTS package is supplied with scrript and DVD only and DOES NOT include dynamo spot card!

WHAT YOU RECEIVE: a 60 minute DVD and printed scripts.

QUALITY OF DVD: Like most of Bill Abbott's DVDs, this is a high quality release. The lighting, camera angles, etc are all fantastic. Just great stuff.

MY THOUGHTS: Since this is a DVD release without any physical props, I'm going to skip all of the separate categories on angles, etc. In short, this DVD is about performing the old "What's Next,' "Spot" card, whatever version is out there, this performance will work just fine.

Full Disclosure: I originally bought Spots from Bill Abbott directly months ago and at that time, he included The Nielsen Magic spot card and I feel it's the best out there. Royal Magic has a cheesy version out there which will not last long - trust me. A friend of mine, decades ago, fooled me badly with the Whats Next card, but the Nielsen one is superb.

I had performed this here and there as a young magician but like most classic stuff, I set it aside without a tremendous amount of thought...with so many of us, we're so quick to ditch the classics when we're younger!

Anyway, the reason I bought Spots is because I have always had a fondness for the effect but never cared for the "supplied" handlings. Michael Ross' handling is AMAZING and he fooled me badly with the effect even though I owned a version of the prop. That, dear readers, is a GREAT feeling!

The DVD covers 'care & feeding' of your prop, angles, prop management, performance theory and a lot of somewhat esoteric stuff, some of which I agree with and some I definitely don't but it's good food for the brain.

As with most of Abbott's releases, at the end of the instruction part of the DVD he includes a "conversation with" whomever is the subject of the DVD. Often, this is where the best stuff is hidden. I found Michael Ross to be an engaging, intelligent guy who obviously takes this stuff very seriously.

Back to his handling for a moment - if you have ever received the so-so reactions to this effect (as I have) I can assure you that Ross' handling will work in any situation. I've used his handling at a few birthday parties, in front of 500 kids at a school and all points in between. I've had people three quarters of the way around me (I avoid surrounded performances) and I've always had complete confidence that I would NOT get busted.

I really love and appreciate the amount of thought that went into a classic that many of us would toss aside.

Okay, that's the good stuff, but now I want to discuss the negative - for me personally, I felt Michael's scripting was lacking. There was not anything wrong with it per se, but it did not jump out at me, either. There's a couple of somewhat amusing lines and in truth the family and adult scripts are nearly identical - by omitting a reference to drinking, you've almost got his family script.

There's a few set up lines outlining the effect to follow and then it's mostly exposition - "Four spots on this side, three on this side," etc. Just very basic stuff.

I don't mean to pick on Michael and it's obvious that he put a lot of time into this effect, having performed it thousands of times, and I know in a given show that not every effect I do will necessarily have Pultitzer prize scripting, but in my humble opinion, this release is absolutely worth buying for the handling alone - Ross has really made some great innovations. His scripting is just OK. Nothing wrong with it but not earth-shattering, clever or even memorable.

The 'extras' such as the care and feeding, prop management, and especially the conversation with Abbott are all worthy things to search out on the DVD.

RATING: 8 out 10 - great handling, great value.

Murder By Magic is Almost Gone and REVIEW: Amazing Twenty Dollar Bill Trick by Hal Spear and Paul Romhany

2012-12-11T13:32:00.000-08:00

Hi all!

Sorry for the delay in my last post. A few updates...

My hypnosis office is FINALLY FINISHED! This is something that's been in the works for several months now. We took over the building from the former tenant in October and since then , my wife and I have been in there in our spare time which has been quite rare since her hair salon is crazy-busy and the 4th quarter of every year is always my most insane time of the year in terms of performing...but now it's done - the city came through and gave us the official 'stamp of approval' so I can legally open my doors. So, if you're in the Niagara Falls area and need to quit smoking, lose weight, etc., visit our site - www.NiagaraFallsHypnosisCenter.com

Today is December 11th and that means there's only a few weeks left to invest in my Murder By magic - The Ultimate Corporate Magic Show package. After December 31st, it gets pulled forever.

On to this week's review: The Amazing $20 Bill Trick by Hal Spear and Paul Romhany. It's available for $39.95 and is available from Hocus Pocus.

Here's the ad copy:

"When Hal showed me a tape of this hilarious new confusion routine, I said this is the substitute for banana/bandana I've been looking for."-- Paul Romhany

Explaining that he is trying out a new trick, the performer follows along to an instructional CD only to have the volunteer's borrowed and signed twenty dollar bill totally destroyed. The instructional CD is no help as it ends abruptly, telling the performer if he wants to learn the secret to magic Lesson number two - he has to buy magic lesson number three!

Left with no recourse, the Magician says he's going to let the volunteer keep the Amazing Twenty Dollar Bill Trick as pay back.

Now get this - the volunteer, who has been holding the box the Amazing Twenty Dollar Bill Trick came in the entire time, is asked by the Magician as a last ditch effort to check inside for the trouble-shooting DVD. The spectator opens the package, takes out the DVD case, opens it where inside is a sealed windowed envelope that says TROUBLE SHOOTING. But wait - seen inside the window of the sealed envelope is a signed twenty dollar bill. And yes - lo and behold - it is the spectator's signed twenty dollar bill!

After our performer screams that he's returning the trick in the morning - the Voice Over pops back on for one last word - very funny, unexpected closer.

This is just the basic effect. The Amazing Twenty Dollar Bill Trick is filled with comedic twists and turns and is soo easy to do!

Comprehensive DVD with Paul's handling and bonus ideas. Quality made CD with professional voice over including two shorter versions of the routine and the full seven minute version. Quality made props.

WHAT YOU RECEIVE: You receive the instructional DVD and an audio CD with three different versions of the routine recorded. You also receive a "Cheap Tricks" DVD case for use in the routine, some envelopes and other things.

QUALITY OF INSTRUCTIONS: Like Paul's other DVD releases, the instructions are top-notch in terms of clarity, understanding the effect, etc. The lighting is good and you can see & hear everything. This is not L&L studio-quality stuff, but for my liking, it doesn't need to be. Paul is one of the busiest and most respected professionals working world wide so I don't need some over-reacting L&L audience.:)

DIFFICULTY: I am very pleased to report that the 'difficulty' level of this routine is insanely easy from a technical standpoint. Additionally, Paul offers up a few even EASIER options (with NO reduction in the amazement level of the routine) for guys like me who really just want the easiest thing imaginable. In a recent email conversation Paul & I had recently, we both agreed we generally wanted the easiest methods possible for new effects as we both constantly try to anticipate and thus plan for anything that could go wrong. When you're a working pro and you count on successful shows to pay your mortgage, you can't afford to take chances. People pay for success!

QUALITY OF CD TRACKS: The original routine is quite long, around 7 minutes on the first CD track. It has some really good jokes and in particular has a moment or two where the audio recording apparently 'hears and reacts' to the live performer, which I thought was really cool. Additionally, the voice actor recording the track is quite good in terms of acting and cadence. Ultimately, I do agree with Paul's own assessment on the instructional DVD that the track is really too long. I myself have recently began taking notes about what I can chop out using my free Audacity audio recording program because I really like the voice actor, but if you're not into playing around with that stuff like I am, Paul has also provided on the CD two much shorter tracks - one in a female's voice and another in Paul's own voice. Both tracks are also quite good.

MY THOUGHTS: I feel this is a fine addition to the "Magician plays an instructional magic CD for the audience" plot most popularized by the Vanishing Bandanna. This may not be a show stopper, but it's a fine middle effect and the use of the CD recording always livens up any show as it's something different to add texture to a show.

Also, and on a personal note, I want to add that when this effect first came out, some folks attacked Paul's acting on the DVD, claiming his mugging and reactions to the CD was childish. Two things on that - first, after watching the DVD, I did not get that feeling and two, Paul often performs for 2000 people at a time so a certain degree of 'projection' is necessary.

Personally, I thought he was just fine.

Again, I REALLY liuke this. Not a showstopper, but a worthy addition to my family shows. 9 out of 10.

REVIEW: Mona Lisa 2

2012-11-27T18:13:00.003-08:00

Hi Everyone!

This week's blog is actually a little early! My late-week gets pretty crazy, so I decided to do the blog early. Let's get right to it - this week's review is Mona Lisa 2 by Alpha Magic, it's available for a special 30% off - $315.00.

Here's the ad copy:

Long unavailable. Through an exclusive arrangement with the mfg. we have purchased all remaining inventory of this incredible effect and are offering you this last chance to obtain one at an incredible 30% OFF! Supply is limited so don't delay...Order yours today!

This brand new version of this classic effect is available again. The Mona Lisa 2 now offers two performance options!

The Effect:

A volunteer from the audience examines the pieces of the puzzle and independently selects one out of 100 completely differently shaped pieces. Once this has been done the magician exposes the puzzle, which is missing one piece. To the audience's amazement, the piece that the volunteer chooses, is precisely the missing piece!!!

This simple and direct effect is what will make this an instant classic in the world of magic! You receive the beautiful fully golden framed puzzle of the Mona Lisa, the extra puzzle pieces,the special something that allows the trick to work,velvet puzzle cover, protective transport case,full performance music on CD and a full "Mona Lisa Routine."

This elegant magical mentalism piece will be the hit in your next performance. Imported from overseas just for you, order Mona Lisa 2 today!

The Kit Includes:
A 100-piece picture puzzle of the "Mona Lisa"
A unique gimmick with unique puzzle pieces
A black velvet fabric cover
A custom case
A classical music CD

QUALITY OF EQUIPMENT: I bought the first version of this about 10 years ago, right before I went full time as a performer. 10 years later, it still looks like new. Everything is so well made and besides, the protective travel case keeps everything looking great. This is made to last, for true traveling pros.

ANGLES: Although you could do this surrounded in terms of The Secret, the fact is that the revelation is really best for audiences seated right in front of you. It is a visual revelation, after all.

DIFFICULTY: In terms of technical skill, this is indeed one of those "do it right out of the box" type of tricks. Obviously there's a certain level of performance that's needed. You can rest assured that your efforts can be directed toward connecting with your audience.

MARKETS: Here's the cool thing about this bit o' mental magic...in my experience of performing this for 10 years, I've found that adult audiences, teens, and even elementary kids can appreciate the effect. I've performed this for corporate groups, daytime school assemblies and night time family shows. It plays well for all of them.

MY THOUGHTS: From what I've said thus far, you should be able to tell that I really like this effect. The props look great and the puzzle pieces themselves are large enough for big audiences. Once you find out how it works, you'll definitely have one of those "oh, I could have thought of this" moments. That being said, everything is so well made and the high visibility of the props really adds a visual element to the effect. Additionally, unlike the version I bought 10 years ago, this version gives you TWO options so you could do this for repeat audiences.

10 out of 10.

Holidays and REVIEW: Briefcase Table by JL

2012-11-23T18:38:00.001-08:00

The holidays are upon us!!

Welcome back, dear readers. Sorry about the delay with the blog the last couple of weeks. Between my performing schedule and getting the new hypnosis office open, it's been pretty hectic around here. Add in a bout of serious flu this past week, and I have been amazed at how fast time flies!

It's the end of October and that means the year is just about over...and that means there's only one month left to make the investment for my incredible "Murder By Magic: The ULTIMATE Corporate Magic Show." At the end of this year, it will be pulled...forever!

On to this week's review...it's The Briefcase Table by JL. It's available for $229.95 from Hocus Pocus.

Here's the description:

This Heavy Duty Professional briefcase table is beautifully made with top quality materials to insure a lifetime of use. If you are a working professional you will appreciate all of the upgrades that lesser quality tables do not offer.

Take a look at these great features.
Double braced chrome plated tripod Stand.
Black Velvet like storage bag
Thick rubber feet
Extra large heavy duty flange (attached to case)
Heavy duty flange (attached to top of stand)
Full height adjustability
Lined case to protect against scratches
Storage pockets
No wobbling
Built to last a lifetime

Briefcase Dimensions Approximately: 3.5" x 12.5" x 18"

Table Height when assembled Approximately: 24" to 36" (Adjustable)

WHAT YOU GET: You get the briefcase itself, with the mount on the bottom for the stand. The case itself has inner pockets to store props, too. You also receive the adjustable stand with a velvet bag.

MY THOUGHTS: Since this is not a 'trick' I will get right to my thoughts. This case and stand combo is REALLY well made. It has the silver corner protectors in the 'musical equipment roadcase' style that is popular these days.

The stand itself is super stable and the overall look of this combo means your show will really look stylish - so much more so than a traditional briefcase, which is what many magicians use.

I myself typically travel with a lot more equipment than will typically fit into a briefcase, but lately I've been re-visiting Dan Harlan's Pack Flat, Play Big series of DVDs and I know that some day I will be downsizing my show into something a bit more manageable and this case will completely fit the bill.

RATING: This is an incredible value as a great way to both transport your show - either all or part of it, depending on your style - and as a way to perform in a way that is stylish and modern. 10 out of 10.

Sorry about the short review this week, but the way my schedule is, it's hard keepin up.:)

REVIEW: Creature Shock by Peter Loughran

2012-11-07T05:11:00.001-08:00

Hello all!

Well, election day has come and gone....I'm just glad that I won't have all of those damn political messages clogging up my answering machine.:)

Just a quick reminder that Murder By Magic is available again here at Hocus Pocus but ONLY until the end of the year and then it is GONE forever. It really is the ULTIMATE corporate magic show and can easily play for 400, 200 or 20 people! Pros around the world who have made the investment continue to praise it. The clock is ticking.:)

On to this week's review: Creature Shock by Peter Loughran. It's available from Hocus Pocus for $699.

AD COPY: The performer introduces a small magical chest and explains to the audience that this chest is actually a portal or a gateway to another dimension, and this is how magicians have been making animals and objects appear in their magic acts for centuries. He will now reveal to the audience how the magical gateway works and will now demonstrate the illusion.

The performer introduces several playing cards that have different names of animals on them that a magician might produce or make appear in their magic acts, for example a Dove, Rabbit, Canary etc. He has someone in the audience select a playing card, and show everyone what they have picked. The card is shown to have the word "Rabbit" written on it.

The performer now opens the chest and shows it to be completely EMPTY. The chest is closed and then the door is opened and a rabbit is pulled out of the box just like magic! The audience is thrilled but wants to see more, so the magician offers to do it again, and this time they can select a different card.

The next card is turned over, but to the magician's horror, the card says "Gorilla". The performer seems confused and starts to utter..."What does that card say?...A Gorilla?...how the heck could a Gorilla fit inside this small...." Then before the magician has a chance to finish his sentence, the small chest starts shaking violently out of control, the front door busts open and a giant Gorilla arm comes lunging out towards the audience, and reaches for them and the magician. The magician, frantically struggles, but manages to somehow contain the beast and close the door. The chest still shaking wildly, the performer decides to ditch the prop, and move on to a much easier and less dangerous card trick.

A hilarious and action packed routine great for all ages, full of laughs and surprises, a guaranteed hit at your next show.

You can use any small animal or object that will fit inside the load area instead of a rabbit. The inside boasts a clear coat armor finish that makes it virtually stain proof and animal droppings will easily be cleaned up after each show.

You can show the box empty before the first production, and then show it again empty after the first production and before the gorilla makes its appearance. It is also possible to once again show the box empty after the gorilla has been contained.

Creature Shock is fully self contained, and requires no special clothing, just pick it up and perform it, simple as that. Sets up and Resets in about 1 minute and is very easy to do. Built like a professional illusion and tricked out in polished aluminum.

Creature Shock is very deceptive from just a couple of feet away, and great to perform up close or on stage. Just as people begin to think the gorilla arm might be, being animated by simple puppetry, you turn so that the audience can see both hands are still on the outside of and still holding the chest. The Gorilla arm itself also appears much longer than any of your own arms which only add to the impossible appearance of the illusion.

Packs small and plays big!
No animals were harmed in the making of Creature Shock; however some of the humans didn't make it.

Creature Shock comes with professionally built illusion chest, playing cards, and instructions.

This illusion is built on order, please allow 2-4 weeks turnaround time

Custom ATA Case - Please add USD $199.99

WHAT YOU RECEIVE: You receive the specially designed box itself and written instructions along with routining ideas.

QUALITY: I love the fact that not only is Peter's stuff modern-looking (no damn dragons spraypainted!) but by adding the silver metal corner protectors, the box is well-protected. The written instructions are very detailed - the workings are so simple that Peter could have done the 'one sheet treatment' with this release but he goes into much more detail.

DIFFICULTY: This is one of those effects that from a technical standpoint is really easy, maybe a 1 on a 10-scale of difficulty, but the true secret of this effect is selling the idea that a gorilla is trying to get out of the box. You'll need to do some acting and work on your blocking, which leads me to...

ANGLES: The angles are quite good on this for the first production of the animal or whatever you produce the first time, but for the gorilla, you want your audience in front of you. If you have audience members sitting on the sides or in back, you'll be busted. In my opinion, while the trick is deceptive from up close, the angles on this will keep me doing this strictly on stage where audiences are more easily controlled (as opposed to birthday shows!)

AGES: I feel this effect may be too scary for daycare-age kids, but thus far in my performances, kids of a wide range react really well to it! So far I've used it for audiences from K to 5th grade and the responses have been incredible.

MY THOUGHTS: The first time I did this, the audience lost their minds! The screams and laughter blew me away! I did it early on in the show and when I was building to my big climax trick, several kids in the audience called out, "Bring back the gorilla!" That was REALLY cool, as I had held off on ordering this effect until I had a place for it in one of my school assembly shows. Once I found the right place for it however, it fit like a glove.

One thing I should mention - if you do this as a way to produce a live animal, make sure your animal is not a 'chewer,' as the first time I performed this, I used a rat and the little beast chewed a hole in the gorilla hand! The secret compartment where the animal is hidden is the same place where the gorilla arm is.

In my case, I simply switched to producing a non-live animal for the first production. After making that switch, the quality & reaction to the effect did NOT drop at all as the nature of the production (based as it is on a fantastic classic principle) is so deceptive that pulling anything out of the 'empty' box is mindblowing.

RATING: Peter Loughran continues to deliver big-time with his releases and this is no different. 10 out of 10.

Updates on Several Effects and REVIEW: Hathaway Card Rise by Martin Lewis

2012-10-26T07:31:00.000-07:00

Howdy!

Before I get into this week's review, I want to 'flashback' to a few effects I've reviewed previously and let everyone know how my opinions of the these effects have held up (or not) as I continue to use them in my professional work...

Peter Loughran's Electronic Flashbox: When I initially reviewed this item, I had only performed it twice but the reactions were incredible. This week I've been performing it all week, two schools a day, two shows per school, so this thing has really got an intense workout at my schools this week. After all of these performances, I am even more convinced this is one of the best things I've purchased in a long time!

Triangle of Terror by Keith Fields: Like the flashbox above, this beauty has really got a workout this week and the reactions are astonishing - screams, and then spontaneous applause by kids and adults. Great concept for a routine!

Freefall by Andrew Mayne: I gave this a favorable review when I wrote it up but at that time I had not performed it yet. As longtime readers of my blog know, I am not impressed with most of the things I've seen from Mayne. However, after performing Freefall 15 times this week for audiences of around 300 kids at a time, I can say that Freefall, in my opinion, is one of the best things Mayne has put out. This series of schools had already seen my other opening effects in previous shows (Bowl-A-Rama and my Parasol Act) so I needed a new opener for these schools. Freefall is amazing and can definitely move into my "A" material.

On to this week's review - it's Martin Lewis' Hathaway Card Rise. It's available for $195 from Hocus Pocus.

Here's the ad copy:

Hathaway's remarkable contribution to the rising cards trick has become a classic of its genre. This astonishing effect is not only deceptive and practical but highly visible too, making it most effective for stage or parlor presentation.

Three cards rise up from an examined jumbo deck which is inside a clear houlette suspended on ribbons held by you and a spectator - under seemingly impossible conditions - yet totally under your control. The self-contained apparatus is both sturdy and attractive and built to Martin Lewis' exacting standards. This is the quality you have come to expect from Martin's Magikraft Studios.

Included is an instructional DVD by Martin Lewis, showing a live performance for an audience of 700. Martin explains in his clear and informative manner the working details and variations which "sell" the effect to the audience. And he should know, the trick having been in his act for over 30 years.

WHAT YOU GET: You get the card holder itself (with gimmicks), plus a jumbo deck of playing cards and an instructional DVD.

QUALITY OF EQUIPMENT: I've been using mine off and on for around 5 years and everything has held up great. My stuff looks brand new.

QUALITY OF INSTRUCTION: Martin Lewis really is one of magic's great creators and teachers. While the Card Rise concept is not original with Lewis, he's really modernized it for today's performers. He teaches many subtle aspects of the effect including routining, pacing, handling and more. He also covers the hows and whys of altering the revelations as by the time the third card rises, the audience knows what to expect and are no longer amazed. Some of Lewis' suggestions in that regard are truly inspired. Truly a joy. Also, the DVD includes a live performance of Martin doing the routine on a cruise ship in front of several hundred spectators - always a convincer to guys like me!

ANGLES: This routine is terrific and if you alter the final card (three cards rise), then you could do this surrounded. If you do the third card rise as Martin does, you cannot have anyone directly behind you. The point is, you have options.

AGES: I have performed this in both family shows where the audience ranges 2 - 90 in age and as I currently do it now, I primarily perform it for grades 3 - 5. It slays audiences each time.

MY THOUGHTS: The reason I'm reviewing this (it's hardly a new release) is for two reasons: one, I've been performing it all week for a specific themed show so it's fresh on my mind and two, I really feel that many magicians out there are always chasing after the latest new thing. So often we forget all of the great magic that's been out for a while.

Besides the fact that the work during performance is drop dead easy, I really appreciate the fact that this effect includes multiple revelations - in other words, because three cards rise, there are multiple points of astonishment.

This is highly visual magic at its very best,. We should all thank our lucky stars that folks like Martin Lewis have decided to share their work with us. An unbelievable value and well worth the investment.

10 out of 10.

MURDER Reminder and REVIEW: Dan Harlan's The Manipulation Show DVD

2012-10-18T15:04:00.002-07:00

Hello loyal readers!

I'm back...but boy am I hurting!! Several school shows this week which is great, but most of the schools had zero ramps so I spent most of this week thus far hauling my stuff up and down stairs. A number of years ago, I made the conscious decision to NOT have a 'Pack Flat, Play Big" style of show for schools. It was mostly because the effects I was 'drawn' to the most were effects that were slightly larger. i know a few friends who DO pack flat, play big for school shows and while I LOVE performing, today's a day where I have to question my sanity!!

Just another quick reminder - my Murder By Magic: The ULTIMATE Corporate Magic Show is currently available on Hocus Pocus but ONLY til the end of this year then it will be GONE FOREVER and I will never offer it again. This is your LAST chance to get your hands on the most original magic show available for the corporate market.

OK, on to this week's review while my back holds out...(sitting is torture for me right now!!)

Dan Harlan's The Manipulation Show DVD from the L&L Pack Flat, Play Big series. It's available for $34.95 from Hocus Pocus.

As with my previous review of Dan's Bizarre Show DVD, I will list each routine and rate that routine, and then offer my overall thoughts on the whole DVD.

DANCING CANE: The show starts with a simple dancing cane routine. Dan's handling is fine and the routine is solid and short - most amateurs' dancing cane routines are far too long, like many levitation type effects, shorter is better. The real twist here, though, is after the dancing routine, the cane changes colors...and then the cane transforms into a couple of colored silks. I feel this is a marvelous way to transition out of the Dancing Cane. Dan teaches you how to make a simple gimmick to transform any Fantasio Vanishing Cane into a Dancing Cane. The color changes and all else is terrific, too. 10 out of 10.

VANISHING CANDLES: In this routine, three candles vanish in various ways. The demo video online shows this routine in its entirety, so you can preview it. Other than some somewhat obvious times during the routine when I felt it was clear Dan was ditching gimmicks, I thought this routine was superb. A few moments of thought will give buyers alternate ways of ditching the gimmicks, so don't let that deter you from a great routine. This routine is what prompted me to buy the DVD. 10 out of 10.

BILLIARD BALLS: Again, Dan turns to the classics. While Jeff McBride gave buyers of his manipulation DVDs a lot more routines and fancy moves to choose from, Dan's routine is solid and a great way to get your feet wet to see if you like performing Billiard Balls. Not groundbreaking, but good, solid stuff. 9 out of 10.

TIGHTROPE: This is a rope routine that like most of the DVD is played silently by Dan. I REALLY like this routine as there were some visual, silent gags that really made me laugh out loud. You'll learn the classic 'sliding knot' technique for a rope routine and some other quality stuff. The fact that Dan gets two volunteers up to hold the rope as he pantomines a tight rope act is really inspired as the volunteers fill the stage and again, some of the gags I thought were just tremendous. 10 out of 10.

SILKEN DREAM: This is a rather short routine - it's the production of several silks. It's a classic, once again, and well-presented and well-taught by Dan. Not mind blowing but like everything on this DVD, it's rock-solid and looks great. I've been presenting a version of this that I learned on a McBride DVD for years and it does not knock audience's socks off, but it's a good piece...plus it sets Dan up for the last routine, which is nice. 8 out of 10.

OUCH: The only routine on this DVD where Dan speaks, this is a thimble routine with bandaids instead, on the fingers, The bandaids jump from finger to finger, vanishing, multiplying, etc. It's a solid routine with the exception of one move that is so obviously transparent that even the usually giddy L&L audience just sits there. The concept of using bandaids is novel and with the exception of that one dumb move, a really cool routine. 9 out of 10.

LINKING RING ROUTINE: Unlike the annoying routine with rings that Dan offered on his All-Purpose show (which was a routine designed for "comedy" that showed a volunteer unable to complete the tasks assigned during the routine - a plot I always despise) this routine is a silent piece that shows several pretty links and unlinks. Again, McBride's DVDs may give you more options, but for someone who just wants to learn a solid ring routine without a lot of extras. this is good stuff. 10 out of 10.

ZOMBIE: As you might surmise, this is a nice Zombie routine. This routine has a good flow to it and offers a lot of good visual sight gags and classic moves. What more can I say? The Zombie is a classic for a reason. I myself have told many amateur magicians looking to routine shows that a good Zombie routine is a suitable ending for a stage show. 10 out of 10.

BLENDO: This blew me away! I'd seen a noted childrens' entertain David Ginn do something like this and it really floored me, so when I saw this on the DVD, I was really excited to finally learn it. The secret is very simple and looks so fair and impossible. There are no boxes or tubes...just bundle of clearly individual silks that are shook out into a beautiful blendo. Stunning!! 10 out of 10.

MY THOUGHTS: As you can tell from my individual scores, this DVD really impressed me. There are literally no 'dog' routines and I feel it's the best of Dan's "Pack Flat, play big" series. This DVD could have just as well been titled "Dan Harlan Does The Classics," because every routine is either a straight classic or is a classic re-tooled. A wonderful value. I give this DVD a 9.5 out of 10. Not every routine was perfect in my view, but there is so much outstanding value that I have to give this DVD a great score.

Murder is going....going....and REVIEW: Peter Loughran's Electronic Flash Box

2012-10-10T16:10:00.000-07:00

Hi all,

Sorry for the delay in getting a blog posting up. This time of year is crazy busy for me. Check out my schedule thus far just for October...

October 1 – Pocopson, PA – 9:15am & 10:15am

October 2 – Budd Lake, NJ – 10:00am & 2:00pm

October 3 – Wanamassa, NJ – 9:15am & 10:45am

October 4 – New Egypt, NJ – 9:00am

October 4 – Newfane, NY – 7:00pm

October 9 – Norfolk, VA – 1:00pm

October 10 - Willingboro, NJ – 9:15am

October 11 - Upper Saint Clair, PA – 9:00am & 1:00pm

October 12 – Dubois, PA – 1:00pm & 2:00pm

October 15 – Williamsville, NY – 8:30am & 9:30am

October 15 – Buffalo, NY – 7:00pm

October 16 – Milburn, NJ – ALL DAY

October 17 – Short Hills, NJ – ALLDAY

October 18 – Short Hills, NJ – ALL DAY

October 19 – Cranberry, NJ – 1:15pm & 2:15pm

October 22 – Tabernacle, NJ – 9:00am & 10:00am

October 23 – Freeport, NY – ALL DAY

October 24 – Rochester, NY – ALL DAY

October 25 – Freeport, NY – ALL DAY

October 26 – Freeport, NY – 1:30pm & 2:30pm

October 27 – Rush, NY – 8:00pm

October 29 – Cape May Courthouse, NJ – 10:00am & 2:00pm

October 30 - Penn Yan, NY – 1:15pm & 2:15pm

Pretty nuts!!!

Before I get to this week's review, just a reminder: as of December 31st Murder By Magic will NOT be available ANYWHERE. I buckled to the pressure and requests from performers and agreed to make the product available again but only until the end of the year. After December 31st it will not be sold again EVER by me or any other authorized source so if you've been thinking about it, this time period from now til the end of the year will be your LAST chance...EVER.

OK, now on to this week's review: It's Peter Loughran's Electronic Flash Box! It's available for $599 from Hocus Pocus.

EFFECT: Show a handsome, modern box to be completely empty. Suddenly, without any apparent effort on your part, there is a flash of fire and a LIVE animal appears in a flash! No cloth, nothing tricky, just an instantaneous appearance!

WHAT YOU RECEIVE: The Flash Box itself, written instructions and 2 AA batteries. Supply your own table stand, flash products and live animals.

QUALITY: I Love this!! Peter has made this look ultra modern and sleek with the metal trim and the three chains in the front of the box. Having the unit trimmed out in metal not only gives it a modern look but it also protects the prop from bumps and scratches.

DIFFICULTY: I hate saying how easy a trick is because a proclaimation of "easy" is almost a free pass not to practice for some magicians but honestly, you'll be able to perform this right after reading the instructions. This really takes the pressure off and allows you to PERFORM.

MY THOUGHTS: I've actually owned this for a couple of months now but held off on reviewing it until after I actually put it in front of a live group of spectators. I bought this trick for a specific place in a specific themed show (one of my school assemblies).

I knew it would play well because I have a ton of Peter's other stuff. That being said, I wanted to write this review from the standpoint of actually having USED it...I almost always give Peter's stuff a 10 out of 10 so I know some cynical folks out there in "Cyberspace" would believe I was just handing out 10's to Peter without much thought.

Today the trick made it's premier and it brought the house down. I closed with it and was scheduled to do two shows. After the first show, the client said to me, "Oh my GOD that was amazing with the rat! You HAVE to come back! This year!"

All of this before I even finished the job because I still had a second show to do!

Granted, today was only two performances, but I feel confident saying that in my experience, after having bought 5 or 6 of Peter's other effects (that I continue to use to this day) that THIS is the BEST thing I have thus far bought from him.

MY SCORE: 10 out of 10 - of course! I also have Creature Shock on order and look forward to working with that soon.:)

NEXT WEEK: I review Dan Harlan's Manipulation DVD from the Pack Flat series from L&L. After that, other reviews include John Kennedy's Black Box, a killer mentalism effect from Nathan Kranzo and others. Stay tuned!!

MURDER is Back, The Joy of High School Performing and REVIEW: Dan Harlan's Bizarre Show DVD - Pack Flat Series

2012-09-27T19:19:00.000-07:00

Hello all,

Well, the school season is in full swing. One market that many magicians always seem to overlook is the high school assembly market. With the right message and the right content in terms of effects, you can not only make a ton of money in this market but also have a really great time performing. High school audiences really enjoy mentalism and some of the more 'weird' kinds of effects out.

Two days ago, I did my first high school gig of the new school year. Not only did the PTO parents who booked the program have all kinds of great things to say about the program but several teens told me after the show how much they loved it.

Many magicians shy away from these shows because teens can be viewed as being a "difficult" audience, but with the right show, it can be the most rewarding experience you may ever have!

I've put my 15 years of high school performing experience into my latest product, "How to Make A Ton Of Money Performing in High Schools." You get my messages, my marketing, my complete lineups, emails, complete scripting and a total 'hot to' manual of high school performing! Check it out at Hocus Pocus!

Also, for a VERY LIMITED TIME ONLY, I have re-released Murder By Magic! It's up and available again at Hocus Pocus but it's ONLY going to be available until the end of this year, so take advantage of this RIGHT AWAY as this will be the very last time I ever offer...EVER. I debated with myself for months and finally gave in to the pressure from several magicians, but after this year ends, it will be gone FOREVER. Act now.:)

On to this week's review: It's Dan Harlan's Bizarre Show from the Pack Flat, Play Big DVD series. It's available from Hocus Pocus for $34.95.

MY THOUGHTS: Unlike many magicians, I got into Bizarre magic and mentalism before I got into closeup and kids' magic. As a result, when I see a good bizarre themed release, I really get excited. Over the years, Harlan has released a lot of good material. In fact, this DVD was apparently produced at the same time as the previous entries in the "Pack Flat" series. The setting is the same, with the most annoying L&L audience ever - the same group that was present for Dan's other DVDs. They even wear the same clothes, so I can only assume that was a LONG day for those people.:)

Interestingly, with Dan's newest Pack Flat releases (again, held back from nearly a decade ago when they were first filmed), the L&L group's reactions are more muted. For some of the gorier effects, many attendees turn away and actual applause is minimal...and all of this is to be expected at a Bizarre magic show....trust me, I know.:)

I'm going to go through each routine in turn and offer quick thoughts on each.

BOOK OF BLOOD: As the pages of this dusty old journal are flipped through, they gradually get bloodier and bloodier. As one might surmise from the video preview clip, this effect is based on a classic kids' effect. The way this principle is used here looks terrific. Interestingly, a Bizarre magician by the name of Joe Givan created a similar effect in Tony Andruzzi's New Invocation magazine from the late 80's/early 90's. Dan's construction is much easier than Joe's and the storyline is good, too. Big thumbs up from me. 10 out of 10.

NEEDLE THRU ARM: This is indeed the methodology for the Classic Needle Thru Arm made most famous by Harry Anderson. Dan's presentation is good and most importantly, he has a great script line that gives justification for the one key move in the routine. Dan even reveals how to make your own Needle, though I'm lazy and prefer to buy the prop.:) One caveat - Dan recommends a "certain something" that he feels makes the 'work' easier. I've got years of experience performing this effect and Dan's secret 'aide' actually makes the trick fail, and quickly, as it 'fails' in the explanation section. Over the years I too have used this secret something and it can foul up the trick. Therefore, I respectfully suggest you ignore this secondary secret 'aide' Dan recommends. For that reason, I can only give his teaching an 8 out of 10. It's great 'cept that faulty bit of advice. That being said, it's a classic effect.

PSYCHOTIC SURGERY: This is essentially a torn-n-restored card effect to give the audience a rest from the blood. While I agree with Dan's reasoning that you can't have gore in every routine, I felt that this torn and restored card effect was a yawner. 5 out of 10.

DEVILED EGG: This combines Dan's classic Starcle with an egg that emits blood when cracked open...as well as a kicker ending involving a spectator and a knife. I felt the routine was OK until the end with the knife. I really think the routine sputtered to a close. I think the first two phases of the routine are quick good as Starcle is a classic and the visual of the 'blood egg' is great. 7 out of 10.

SHARP TASTE: This is Dan's solution to the razor blade mystery - eating blades, then eating thread, then causing the blades to be threaded when you pull them out. I've used a few different version of the razor blade effect over the years before finally settling on Steve Spill's needle routine, which is cleaner and safer than this effect. Dan's routine, while visually impressive (though not without flaws) is unbelievably dangerous. Dan warns viewers over and over how stupid one would be to do this routine and he's right. Dan's method is sooooooooooooooooooo dangerous that I cannot believe that he even put it on DVD. Much like the Russian Roulette routine put out by Larry Becker using guns, I cannot in any way shape or form recommend his method. ZERO out of 10 - only because it's soooooo dangerous and possibly deadly. Dumb method. There are so many safer ones out there, the best version that I've seen is Scott Alexander's The Blades - looks great and is safe. I prefer Steve Spill's needle routine. The point is, there are safer ways out there.

BABY BALLOON: The method for this "popped and restored" balloon effect is so easy that Dan devotes maybe one minute to it in the explanation. I thought the effect was just OK. The L&L audience didn't react much either. 3 out of 10.

PSYCHIC SURGERY: I'm amazed Dan put this in a show simply because it involves getting fake blood all over the stomach of a volunteer! Interestingly, I myself have performed this years ago a few times for teen audiences. Long story short, on the FOX TV network, they once ran a special and it was called "Psychic Secrets Revealed" or something to that effect - this was at least 12 years ago, maybe more. In the special, secrets of fraud mediums were revealed as well as Psychic Surgery complete with authentic footage of 'healers' doing this to take advantage of grief stricken people trying to heal a very sick loved one.

The history of this fraud is amazing and the script, if you choose to perform this, writes itself. In essence, it appears that you perform a real 'surgery' on a volunteer! This is very freaky when done properly. Dan's version simultaneously adds a classic magic prop and handling to make the routine easier to manage but the 'innards' that Dan pulls out is pretty innocuous. That being said, Dan adds a lot to the handling that I wish I had thought of back when I was performing this. 10 out of 10, with the huge caution of staining a person's clothes - if ever there was a good time for a shill, THIS is it. While no one has to be 'in on it' and it will work with a cold spectator who is unprepared, the likelihood of staining clothes means it's best to rehearse with someone before the show!

THE SPIDER AND THE FLY: A delightful poen frames this ring and rope routine. Similar to the ring and rope penetration routine on Jeff McBride's Commando Act, this looked good and was a more suitable 'break from the gore' than the torn card routine earlier. The rope representing the web of the spider in the poem actually works well.

OVERALL RATING: While there were a few items I did not care for and one that I REALLY recommend you do NOT do because of the danger, the 'thumbs up' routines nudges me to a good rating of 8 out of 10. I enjoyed this DVD and for the RIGHT AUDIENCE, many of the routines can be a lot of fun.