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The Monk's Way

Reynolds, Steve

(Based on 1 review)
Steve Reynolds knows what his audiences are thinking. It's not the ten of clubs. For the past six years, Steve has been working in the trenches as a professional close-up magician, refining an approach that he refers to as "The Monk's Way."

What is the Monk's Way? It's an approach to developing methods that places the audience's psychology foremost. That is, taking into consideration what an audience sees and what they sense.

What one will not find on this DVD is the next slick (but ultimately forgettable) move. Instead, Steve shows how he uses all aspects of a performance to cause the audience to trick themselves into believing they've seen real magic.

Are some of these techniques bold? Yes. Will they work under test conditions? Absolutely.

Some of the subjects covered:
  • Choreography and Blocking
  • Inattentional Amnesia
  • Mental Spin
  • Emphasis and De-emphasis
  • Methodological Construction
Eight effects from Steve's working repertoire are taught in full detail with additional input from Jon Racherbaumer and Mark Aspiazu. So, if you think that your audiences deserve to be truly astounded, then perhaps it's time to stop being a move monkey and become a Monk.

Reviews

Doc Johnson

Official Reviewer

Oct 08, 2015

PROS

Steve not only teaches a great set of card routines, he talks about the philosophy and the mindset that makes for great card magic.

The routines range from the very easy but high impact to some that require more practice and skill. He teaches them very well.

The magic is visual without being "flourishy".

He shows live performances. What I really like is he is clearly a “regular” guy. I don’t think he is a natural entertainment talent. He clearly has worked to develop his ability to entertain an audience. In other words, if he can do you, you probably can too.

CONS

Like I said earlier, I don’t think Steve is a natural entertainer. I point this out because I think some will see this as a negative in a DVD like this. However, I think it demonstrates that a “regular” guy can create entertaining magic.

VERDICT

Very good DVD with well thought out effects and routines and some good philosophy that could help anyone become a better magician.

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