Wise Buy
Celebrity endorsement or not, the same considerations always apply before buying a trick. Always make sure that an effect fits your stage persona and that it will work in your venues and performance situations. Read the reviews in the magic publications and rely on forums to learn about limitations or angle problems.
And think ahead about possible themes and patter. Will this effect support your act? By taking the time to consider an effect before you plunk down your hard-earned cash, you may prevent yourself from adding another unused effect to that drawer or closet full of forgotten magic stuff.
Good Trick, Bad Trick
I can’t comment on the quality of the David Blaine effects as I haven’t evaluated them, but Criss Angel did market some excellent effects with his DVDs: Quarter Through Soda Can and Self Levitation-both of which were featured in his shows. By the way, some of the effects being marketed with David Blaine’s name didn’t actually appear on his special-they either didn’t make the cut or ended-up on the editing floor.
Most important, remember that it’s not the magic effect that determines your success as an entertainer. It’s your ability as an entertainer that determines the success and impact of your magic. And no celebrity endorsement will help with this.
-Wayne N. Kawamoto
