Dixie gives a great overview of the basics. Though he doesn't directly address it, learning from him gives you a real feel of the essence of escapology and what it's about. What's great is that from there you can start working on how you want your own act to look.

His advice on the business side of things is also crucial to anyone looking to take this professionally.

The only downside I can find is that Dooley doesn't seem to be able to go more than a couple of minutes without mentioning Houdini. I get that he was amazing, but I don't want to spend a career stuck in the ideas of another magician.

I have always been fascinated by escapology. However, because of the props required (straight jackets, handcuffs) I have never really attempted any of it. I think that is why i like this dvd the most out of the series. The 100 foot rope tie is especially good. But I also get a kick out of the escape from a rubber band. If you were only going to buy 1 dvd out of the series, then DVD 1 should be it for its practicality. However you really should own them all.

ok so i got this at my magic shop, mostly out of curiosity instead of actual practicality. and i must say i was impressed. the explanations are thurough, the effects are convincing, and the methods are classic! i think that perhaps one dvd is not worth the price. if you are into this at all then get the three disc set plus a bonus disck dedicated to the escape work of houdini! great stuff!

i got this dvd as a bonus item but it is more than worth the money. There is a ton of stuff in it. yes you will havbe to buy some special cuffs and shackles for some of the tricks but most of the devices can be made at home. please do not buy this set because i don't want the competition. This is stuff for both close up and huge audiences.

I bought this dvd because I wanted to learn a few rope ties. I learned that and more. When I completed watching the dvd I tried the 100 foot rope escape standing up and was able to escape in 30 sec. If you like an introduction to escapes buy this dvd.

This is the best DVD. I really want to get the next one (have to save up money) and I configured all the material in this into an act in a stage show I'm doing. If you always wanted to learn escapes by this dvd now.

The first volume was awsome it really makes you a true escape artist. But the only downside to it is that it doesn't come with the materials such as the rope, chains, ect. But if you get this volume you should really get the chain escape it really adds into some of the effects trust me if you are a young magician don't be discouraged be patient and take it one step at a time trust me I have been doing magic for 3 years and I am only 13 so get the first volume but also check out these cool tricks too Hovercard, Rising card deck, and leaving home by Jay sanky, check out all of his products, he is a very good and succsesful magician.

Loved every minute.

SO COOL!!!!!