NBC's Phenomenon: Week Three

After some fireworks during week two between Criss Angel and Jim Callahan, "Phenomenon" fell into predictable convention during week three.

Making the Cut
The show began with a recap that emphasized the clash between Angel and Callahan, and then, it was on to eliminations. I had picked Angela Funovits and Guy Bavli to stay, based on their strong performances, but the elimination of Callahan was an absolute surprise. With Callahan's removal, the potential for conflict and interest evaporated, and I'm sure the show’s producers were very disappointed.

Between Mike Super and Wayne Hoffman, Super's murder mystery routine was strong enough to keep him on this week. So, we're down to five contestants.

A Bit of Voodoo
Among the contestants, Super continues to perform as if he's in a nightclub. His voodoo-themed routine featured a doll that allowed him to present a variety of phenomena: a psychic touch (similar to an effect by an eliminated contestant during week one), voodoo ash (thanks for the camera angle here, I think Super choreographed this one perfectly to cause the camera to go to a crowd shot) and poking the doll with a needle, all of which were remotely felt by the celebrity guest.

Why Did it Have to Be Snakes?
Eran Raven, the nail gun guy, was back with another rendition of Russian roulette. This week, it was roulette with snakes. The celebrity guest placed a personal object into a vase. Three dangerous snakes were placed in three other vases. The vases were mixed and Raven had to stick in his hand and retrieve the object from the safe vase.

Raven provided some drama with his deadly material, and he didn’t miss a beat, even bringing his Mom again to sit in the front row and provide ringside tension.

Incredibly, judge Uri Geller asked Raven to do something even more amazing next week. Raven must be pulling out his hair in response to this. What's he got to do, dismantle a bomb? I think he’s got a good chance to make next week’s cut because of the memorable image of dangerous snakes.

Fire and Guns
This week, Funovits was less steady. The celebrity guest couldn’t make up her mind and was less than an ideal volunteer, and Funovits seemed to be fumbling somewhat with the fire. But her spirit writing routine benefited from her stage presence and persona. No sure thing to make the cuts for next week.

Gerry McCambridge brought out the guns, paintball guns. Three celebrity volunteers were free to aim and hit McCambridge in various parts of his body. A pre-written note showed that he had correctly predicted where he would be hit. A polished performance suitable for a Vegas show, which is what I think we got.

The Acid Test
Finally, Guy Bavli passed his acid test. Several beakers were filled with acid and one with water. Through a convoluted process, one was ultimately isolated and Bavli quickly ingested it. Bavli is skilled and has an engaging stage persona. This was not his strongest performance, but it was probably enough for him to make next week's cut.

I'm no mentalist, but I see Raven and Bavli returning. If I have to pick, I’d go with Funovits in the third slot. Interestingly, with Callahan gone, Criss Angel was very low key this week. No videos about his accomplishments and only his commentary as a judge.

Was it great magic? It's got to be so difficult for these performers to do their standard routines within the restrictions of the show, the cameras and producer’s demands, or to present an effect for the first time that hasn’t had the benefit of hundreds of live performances.

Finals, Next Week
Week three wasn't an outstanding show, but it was adequate. And like the three remaining contestants after this week's cut, Phenomenon will be back next week for its finals.

More Reading:
Readers Talk About NBC's "Phenomenon"
NBC's "Phenomenon" - Week 2 and Readers' Comments
NBC's "Phenomenon" - Week 1 and Readers' Comments
Between 2 Minds by Guy Bavli and Haim Goldenberg