Official Reviewer
Sep 30, 2022
Overview
As an avid student of mentalism I think this is probably one of the best investments in a mentalism DVD set one can make. In this set, there are no expensive props or electronics. All the performance pieces use traditional mentalism techniques. The skills you will develop watching and practicing these techniques and routines will allow you to perform anywhere with almost nothing. If I could give this one ten stars I would. Effect
Premise and Premonition is a 4 DVD set of hard hitting mentalism extracted from Luke Jermay’s theatre shows. In this DVD set, Luke Jermay explains each routine, step by step, the necessary props and scripts that he uses when performing. With the information given within, Luke Jermay is gifting us theatre quality performance pieces that will entertain and amaze any audience.Method
The methods contained on this DVD set are commonly used in predominantly all mentalism performances. The methodology used throughout are pre-show, dual reality, marked cards and boards, Svengali principle and many more standards of the mentalism trade. However, the methods are not the focus of Jermay’s, but the “premise” of each trick is. The thought process is not “how can I fool” but “how can I engage”. For example, Jermay changes an ESP matchup into a Question and Answer routine. The Q and A involves questions that are somewhat personal, philosophical and comical. Contrary to the ESP card matchup, which in itself might be impressive, does not engage to audience according to Jermay. He feels the personal thought process of the audience member engages the audience and peaks their interest. A question like “do you sleep naked” is much more engaging than “take an ESP card and put it on the table.” Product Quality
The four DVDs comprise of 15 routines, timing in at 8.5 hours. The structure is as such, a performance is shown in an actual setting and then the explanation of the routine from start to finish is provided at a table. Occasionally there will be shots of behind the scenes pre-show work. Not only is the routine explained, but also the philosophy, thought process, prop making and scripting are all provided as well. The photography, lighting, sound is all top quality. It is very rare a performer gives so much of himself and his work as in this set. Ad Copy Integrity
The ad copy actually is accurate but actually undersells the product in my opinion. There is so much given in this set, that for less than $100 and some memorization and practice one can have a truly unique mentalism set that will make you look like you are a real mind reader.
