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Un-Matrix

Jonathan Levit

(Based on 1 review)
Jonathan Levit's original coin matrix. This is my signature closer to my close up act.

David Regal says "A graceful, commercial matrix with a surprise climax that devastates audiences and deeply burns magicians."

This routine has been my closer for years and it absolutely kills! I am asked, often, to perform this routine and it has become a favorite for my audiences. This is a fully constructed routine, with many (many) magical moments and surprises.

Please note: This routine requires the use of a gaffed coin which you may already own. If you would like more information before you purchase, please feel free to email me at jlevit@me.com and I'll be happy to answer any questions for you.

Reviews

James Sanden

Official Reviewer

Aug 19, 2015

Jonathan Levit has a talent for taking classic effects and, in his hands, making them extraordinary performance pieces. He has done so again with his recent release, “Un-Matrix,” a handling of the Matrix plot. There are several elements that set Mr. Levit’s handling apart from other versions. First, it’s very deceptive, even to astute observers. The method is extremely clever and all the sneaky stuff is done on the offbeat, under well-crafted misdirection, with none of the standard, potentially suspicious moves. The effect is also crystal clear, with each vanish and appearance being surprising and magical.

As with Mr. Levit’s other releases, the construction of the routine itself offers lessons applicable to any effect, including the use of time misdirection, cancellation of method, as well as acting and performance as misdirection. One of his strongest skills is the ability to layer a method in order to accomplish several goals in one moment. This can be seen throughout the effect, with the best example being that one of the funniest moments in the routine also creates the misdirection and offbeat for a move that can typically be seen a mile away.

In addition to having a great method, the routine itself has a wonderful theatrical build and a magical quality to it. The vanishes are very effective and the constructions gives no clue as to how they are accomplished. Likewise, the appearances of the coins are unexpected, making the routine surprising, despite the fact the performer begins by telling the audience what will happen. And lastly, the routine has several unexpected moments that keep the audience’s attention, building throughout, including a finale no one will see coming.

The instruction, including both video and PDF content, is excellent and includes not just a complete explanation of the method and sleights used, but also covers the theory and psychological construction behind the routine.

In terms of practicality, as long as one has two playing cards, a normal wand and a gimmick most magicians have in their prop drawer, this effect can be performed in a variety of circumstances. The challenge is to perform it without appearing to copy Mr. Levit, who makes the effect not just baffling, but charming and funny. The routine, handling and presentation are so infused with his personality, it will take work and effort to make the routine one’s own, though that is, of course, the job of any serious performer.

The “Un-Matrix” is sold through Revizzit.com, which also hosts the content. The price is $100, which may throw some potential purchasers off. If one is a casual collector of methods, this version is probably not for you. But for the discerning magician looking for an outstanding, surprising and unusual routine, this effect will deceive and entertain. One can’t really put a price on a practical effect used in paid performances to earn a living. From that perspective, $100 is a bargain. The method, performance and presentation are woven together in a gestalt that forms a seamless whole. The principles Mr. Levit uses and the way that he uses them are truly a lesson in method construction and are well worth any magician’s study. Whatever you think of the Matrix plot, this version is worth it. It truly appears to be magic and, performed well, is extremely entertaining. Highly recommended.
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