Derren is certainly a interesting guy. The reason I'm writing this review is to make sure people understand this is not a lecture. It's an interview. There are no tricks or methodology even though Dan did his best to get Derren to go down that road. I was expecting a lecture so I was somewhat disappointed but I'm sure Derren Brown fans will enjoy aspects of the interview.

I have never been more disappointed by a Penguin lecture - especially after watching the brilliant David Williamson deliver real value. I have been a Derren Brown fan for years and bought a ticket to this lecture when it was first advertised and NO mention was made that it was to be a 'philosophy of magic' interview. What a total waste of time and money. Don't waste yours.

I'm a fan of Derren, and credit him for getting me back into Mentalism, but this isn't a lecture, it is an interview, and not a really good one. Penguin and Dan Harlan did a great job but Derren never really opened up about specific or practical things, even as far as theory was concerned. I've seen great theory only Penguin live lecture's, and this wasn't one of them. If you want to learn about Mentalism, or even Mentalism theory, you won't find that here.

There is absolutely nothing in the way of technique or methodology. Nothing will be gained by watching this lecture for either the layman or professional. Derren did not wish to share any of his secrets nor did he perform any tricks. He merely waxed on about what does and doesn't do in the most arcane way possible while everyone around him praised him for showing up. A few pearls of "wisdom" here and there but had I payed the full price I would have felt cheated. In fact, at ten bucks (subscription), I cant say I don't anyway.

Although I love Derren, I feel this lecture was a let down. I agree with another reviewer in that it was a long lecture with out any real direction. I've read Derren's books so there really was nothing I hadn't heard him say. this was an interview all about theory. It would have been great for him to go into some routines from his tv show or stage shows. Overall I was disappointed in this penguin lecture.

Wish it was a lecture, wasn't prepared for it to be an interview. Like a previous post, it seemed to drag on and be repetitive. If you guys like Derren Brown, then this is for you. Overall I say it was okay. This of course is my opinion and everyone will have their own.

First of all, this will be very different from most of the Penguin LIVE lectures you will purchase. The reason is that for you to appreciate, to TRULY appreciate this lecture, you will either be a very advanced student of this craft, or a VERY open-minded individual who is ready to take his/her performances to the next tier. If you are said student, this will be the best three hours of wisdom you will purchase all year.

The lecture goes into great detail about Derren's thoughts on his TV and stage shows, the type of planning that is necessary to pull off some of his incredible feats, as well as the creative process that gives birth to his singular style of performance. Moreover, Derren describes how his own life philosophy impacts his unique skill set - to me, this was the greatest "secret" that will inspire me to truly elevate my craft.

The last 45 minutes were actually what I liked the least, but I do see why Dan pushed the lecture in this direction. These minutes were loosely dappled with "practical/tangible" advice, but were actually pretty useless (anyone who is purchasing this lecture and hopes to gain anything from it should already be well versed in these methods: thus, hearing textbook methods from a genius who doesn't care much to emphasize methodology in this lecture is not much better than re-reading them in print). Nevertheless, even the last third of the lecture contained gems of knowledge, including Derren's real-life experience improvising some of his most creative miracles, and how we might expect to do the same.

All in all, what you get from this lecture is brilliant, surprising insight from the most influential "mentalist" of our time. It takes an aspiring student of a particular caliber to absorb everything flowing out from his mind - I for one, am nowhere near discovering all of the hidden nuggets of gold yet to be found on further watches of this lecture.

6/5 had there been an option.

An extremely inspirational, no nonsense interview with one of the finest performers of our time.
If you are just looking for tricks, techniques or methods then this is not for you. But if you're serious about your art and want to lift your performance to a new level then this is packed full of insights and recommendations.
Dan conducts the interview with very well worded questions that bring forth a wealth of information.
Derren is revealed as an extremely clever, independent thinker with high integrity and a passion for seeking the best in his performances.
I highly recommend this interview to anyone serious about their art.

BUT IT WAS A FANTASTIC INTERVIEW!

Obviously, due to his fame, this interview will be seen by lay people. Dan Harlan did a fine job straddling the line between general and inside information. And Derren was more than accommodating by even crossing the line.

I bought the "All Access" Pass meaning this interview cost me . Best I ever spent. And mentalism lectures by Bill Montana and Art Vanderlay coming up!

Great job, Penguin Magic!

If your looking at learning effects in the style of Derren this is not what this lecture is. No "Secrets" are revealed. Derren is a true performer and is very protective over his methods.

Derren is one of my idols and is the reason i got into mentalism and i always find the man extremely interesting to listen to. I must say if you like Derren and his style of performance this is great to learn about the man himself and some performance techniques.

He talks in great details about the difference between performing on stage and TV even comparing it to close up work.

It would have been nice to learn a couple of effects from this amazing performer and i would have liked to have heard more about how he uses showmanship to achieve his desired effects but overall well worth the money i paid for this live lecture