The DVD is based around (as the blurb says) a 'wild tale', which although means well didn't quite do it for me as I soon found myself skipping to the actual magic content which fortunately was in abundance! There is a lot to learn here, not all the effects grabbed me but almost all contained a neat transferable idea/plot which will certainly work well to inspire your own creations for both close-up & stage.
There are twenty five effects in total, here are my highlights:
'Fairest of them all' is the opening effect and what a start! In brief, two cards are fairly selected/lost and yet you determine there choice. The thinking here is superb - the simple ones are often the hardest to create but Dan & Marv haven't disappointed, this is impromptu gold, will definitely be working this one into my rep.
'Adjoctive' is a Max Maven effect which you may have already come across, a pack of random words are shuffled & dealt out in to packets, once turned over the face words combine to make a sentence of your choice. Being able to tailor the ending to suit your needs is what makes this so strong, well worth learning.
'Holding the bag' is Harlan's psychometry test that uses brown paper bags, I guess the idea here is to throw off any doubts by using an inconspicuous item. Although I probably won't use this effect I really liked the method & presentation, this would make a great addition to a stage act for any psychological illusionist.
'Glass Backwards' is a matching mates effect by Tom Craven. This requires almost no effort at all and is yet seamlessly fair, a perfect stroller.
'Royal Plushy' sees an audience member freely generate a game of poker before being 'psychologically persuaded' to deal out a winning poker hand - you know the plot. This trick usually carried a fairly dull presentation until Harlan came along - unfortunately it's too good to reveal what makes this routine commercial gold!
'Folderol & Dagger Move' is a visual stunner whereby the sharpie magically produces the selection, caught me by surprise, an ideal quickie for sharpie users.
'Counting on you' is Harlan's take on the four card repeat trick except in his version your adding not subtracting. It's quite sleight demanding so I might streamline the handling but for now I've got no choice but to use Harlan's method, as there's absolutely no way I'm missing out on performing the kicker involved - no spoilers I'm afraid! A perplexing routine with a fun finish.
'On your mark' is another Harlan winner that uses some additional cards and some mini prep. Using one sleight & these three cards you can create a safe bet crowd pleaser.
'Beer money' is a super neat transpo involving beer & money! With that said it's no surprise that this would be perfect for bar magicians or indeed any social/event where you might find a bottle of beer. This is simple/effective and despite being a card-guy is going straight on my to learn list.
The above is what got my taste-buds excited but there's definitely something for everyone here so do check out the contents page (link below).
The production & teaching are all as you'd want & a mass input of time/effort is obvious. Retailing at around £40/$60 seems borderline steep but you ARE sure to find some priceless gems, trying not to sound cheesy - I know I have!
Overall there is lots of strong, practical magic to be learnt here. I was going to criticise the effects which I deemed to be filler but the live performances prove me wrong, so what can I say.. add to cart!! Highly Recommended.
Available at http://www.papercranemagic.com/minotaur.htm
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