Official Reviewer
Aug 18, 2023
Overview
You bring out a cuddly toy dog and tell the audience that it needs a name. The audience works together to create a random name which really is a free choice. You invite a Spectator up to assist you and when they look at the dog's name tag on its collar, it amazingly it has the freely selected name written on it! Collard 2 offers an improved method and built in collaboration with Levent to produce a routine so strong that you will want to perform it. Effect
Collard 2 is a full 5 -10 minute comedy/mentalism routine that is great for parlor or stage. No forcing, the dog’s name is selected by the audience or is completely made up by different members of the audience one letter at a time. An audience member is invited on stage to help you and when they look at the tag which was already on the dog collar, the name on the tag exactly matches the previously made up name.Method
The ‘system’ used can be adapted for many other mentalism effects just use your imagination. John gives to all the patter and comedic lines you will need but if you do not want to present it as a comedy act that is totally up to you. The angles are very good and you only have one minor sleight/move you have to do that I can say you all already know how to do. Even if you don’t, it is ‘extremely’ easy and John will explain very clearly how it needs to be done.Product Quality
All gimmicks seen in the trailer are included except for the stuffed animal and a dog collar (I just used some ribbon to make the collar, no big deal). The props are very well made that will last you a very long time, there is really nothing that will wear out. You are provided paper stickers that will last you for 60 performance. Run out - go get more at your nearest stationary supply store. You will receive 8 Birth Certificates and a download to print more … or just photocopy the ones you get. The tutorial is just over 20 minutes long and is very well produced. John will teach you everything from the set up, the whole routine step by step, the reset - nothing really and lots of tips. You get quality props, a great routine with patter supplied (feel free to change it to suit your personality) and some really great entertainment for adults as well as children.Ad Copy Integrity
The Trailer shows the whole routine unedited from start to end so you will see exactly what you are getting so you can also decide if this is good fit for you. Many trailers are heavily edited so it may appear to be your style but once you purchase it and receive all the props (sometimes not all and you have a lot of DIY to do after having to buy other certain things…) or leave out key things you have to do that are not shown. Something minor but should be mentioned here - when John refers to the dog tag being ‘engraved' it is not accurate, it is inscribed/written.Final Thoughts
A $50 price tag for this effect is not a big issue as you will be putting it in your show very soon after you receive it. Practice so very easy blocking and you are good to go. This is a great buy as you are not just buying a ‘trick’, you are purchasing a full routine that is ready to be added to your show. Highly recommended as well as being a great investment.
