Magic Tricks

Im a massive admirer of Max Maven and he is obviously a fantastic performer but I always feel like hes holding something back.

The first effect uses 2 dice and although I enjoyed the presentation of the effect the method seemed obvious to me. Its a method Id never seen before but guessed within 30 seconds. I don't say this to be boastful but to emphasize that I think most layman with critical thinking skills would guess too. Regardless of this I imagine most experienced magicians/mentalist would be able to recreate the effect using a more fooling method.

The second effect involved duplicating simple images the spectators were thinking of. These are the type of effects I usually love but the methodology behind it put me off. I personally have used Extra sensory perception by annemann. I did like the added predixion max used as a finale to the effect so kudos for that.

The final effect was a movie themed booktest. I enjoyed max's thinking and there was a lovely touch which reminds me of a miscall doing the hoy booktest but completely different. Unfortunately you will have to hunt down a copy of the suggested book and do some arts and crafts.That will be ok for most people but I already own other booktests (Flashback,MOAB) and will continue to use them instead.

Overall it was a joy to watch max perform live and his knowledge on the history of magic and mentalism is absolutely insane and borderline genius. I just wish a man with so much knowledge shared some gold I know he has hidden in that mind.

The best part of the act was the structure, the effects seemed to build and there was a lovely contrast in effects. Obviously some thought has gone into the act and I think that is what is most of value here.