In his documentary, “Ever So Sleightly,” film maker Paul Squires takes a brief look at the world of magic and illusion in the UK. The documentary is pretty much a road trip that has Squires driving around and meeting other magicians at theaters, shows, lectures and magic stores and interviewing them.
Some of the notables here include: Joe Pasquale, Paul Zenon, Marc Paul, Paul Gordon, Simon Lovell, Men In Coats, Wayne Dobson, Matthew Stirling and Mark Mason.
Where's the Magic?
As a documentary on magic, "Ever So Sleightly" fails in two ways. For one, there’s not much magic to watch. While there are several tricks that are performed for the camera, it would have been far more interesting to intercut a particular trick or illusion into an interview to demonstrate a concept that a magician is discussing.We’re lucky if a trick even remotely relates to something a magician has just said. The best segments that show the potential for this documentary are when the production covers “Men in Coats.”
Where's the Insight?
Second, the film offers little insight into magic. Most of the performers are asked about their favorite trick and to offer advice to budding magicians. The results are mixed. Here, Wayne Dobson offers the most interesting interview."Ever So Sleightly" is generally fun to watch, but it ultimately leaves you wanting. And at $32, it’s too expensive.
-Wayne N. Kawamoto
MSRP: (US) $32
Dealers can purchase from Murphy's Magic Supplies, Inc.
