I'm honestly baffled by the 5 star reviews for this DVD. This is less like being taught how to
perform an effect and more like simply being shown how it's done. And let's face it; there's a big
difference between those two things. Here are some negatives to be aware of if you decide to spend
$23 on this:
1) It's shot from one side angle that never shifts. If it's not the best angle
to see a particular move, oh well, you'll have to make do.
2) It's in Dutch with English
subtitles (not stated in the ad copy). Generally I don't mind subtitles but it moves SO FAST that
it's impossible to both read the subtitle and watch the action that's happening on screen. As a
result you will be left constantly rewinding.
3) The tutorial is less than 6 and a half minutes
long. A routine that takes up nearly 30 pages in the Books of Wonder gets a 6 minute tutorial. An
effect that relies on near perfect timing and misdirection gets a 6 minute tutorial.
There are
no tips or insight presented from Leo Smetsers, we just get the one angle lightning fast "tutorial"
that Tommy presented to him, with nothing of his own added. The whole project feels lazy in my
opinion.
The only reason I rated this two stars instead of one, is that it has some
value as a supplement to the routine as taught in The Books of Wonder. Where the book breaks down
each move in exhausting detail, this DVD serves to show how the timing of these would play out. But
to be clear, if you're looking to learn how to actually perform this routine, and not simply be
shown how it's done, then this DVD would be all but useless without also owning The Books of Wonder.
Seriously?
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