Growing Ring
Hauss, Dan
Paper Crane Productions - Amanda Hartley
The growing ring is a unique ring effect where a previously examined men's ring grows to three times its original size right before the spectator's eyes. That was not a typo; the spectator actually sees the ring grow. The method for performing the growing ring is so simple you'll be fooling yourself with it in the mirror almost immediately. Included in the growing ring package you receive all the necessary gimmicks and an instructional DVD. There is nothing to build or buy and you can carry this gimmick with you so you can perform this effect anywhere.
Running Time Approximately: 71min
Reviews
(Top ▲)
For $35.00 you get 2 "rings", enough stuff to make over a dozen gimmicks, a DVD and some relatively cool ideas
Overall, I like this effect, and I like the rings. You get two rings, a normal sized one and a humongous one. You also get some "stuff" that let's you create your own gimmicks for creating the visual growing image. There are some complaints on this one, however. The DVD lighting was horrible. Half of the set (including Dan Hauss) was dark and shadowy, while the other half was slightly lit at best. Sure it looks artistic and hip, but it's terrible for learning.
There were several places where I just couldn't see the move or the explanation to fully understand the workings of the effect. Additionally, it seemed as though Hauss was not only unprepared for the video shoot, but for the effects as well. Just about everything was clumsily "walked through." He was frequently unsure of how to do this or when to do that. Furthermore (a point that won't impact the final score, but annoying nonetheless), the word "literally" was sort of his filler word . . . when he was stuck or stumbling for words to say, the word "literally" was chosen . . . won't impact the final score, but it's a bit of an annoyance when a DVD is this unscripted.
On the bright side, the effect is unique, visual and relatively easy to do. Some of the moves are a teeny bit unnatural, but not enough to ruin the effect. This is certainly (as Hauss points out) an effect for a very small group (i.e., 2 or 3 people). As visual as the "growing" is, the handling is a bit fidgety and clumsy in some places. However, I think most of this could be dealt with through more practice. The regular ring only comes in one size, however that won't impact the effect, even if the ring is too small for you.
Additionally, I really liked Hauss's full presentation - you can only see this on the DVD - it was logical, moving and powerful magic. I personally am using my own handling (without the gimmick) to simply pull the small ring off my finger and drop it into the spectator's hand where it grows instantly. It's a quicky, but it's fun and visual. There are many different handling ideas taught and considering that you get a good idea (though not fully developed in my opinion), and 2 rings plus the gimmick stuff, $35 is a reasonable price to pay, particularly if you like the effect.
Speaking of liking the effect, very often, I'll make the following statement: "If you like the effect, you'll be happy with your purchase . . . " I won't be using that phrase here. However, that doesn't mean you won't be happy. I just feel that there are a few quirks with the handling and the gimmick that may be a little disappointing. Overall, however, with the stuff provided, the effect (a small ring grows) can be done. I think most people who use this will, out of necessity, use their own method and handling, but most of the pathway to you destination is found on the DVD
Final Verdict:
3.5 stars with a Stone Status of gem - little 'g'
(Top ▲)
Dan Hauss needs a writer, and an editor. At Twenty minutes the explanation is already ten minutes too long.
That said, the visual is nice. Personally, while watching the demo, I instantly had a theory, and I was not that far off. The gimmick does eliminate one possible theory, but adds two extra slights, both of which Hauss flashes on the DVD. Oh, and the second sleight comes at the worst possible moment when the spectators will want to look at the large ring.
For me, I’m not sure it’s worth the price tag, and the visual doesn’t make up for the sloppy structure.
Two Stars purely for cleverness and potential.