by Josh » Jan 4th, '09, 19:48
The Effect
Actually two books in one (Out of Control and Totally Out of Control): a collection of effects, mainly cards and coins.
Cost
It was bought for me for Christmas, but it's on ww.magicbox.uk.com for £28.
Difficulty
(1=easy to do, 2=No sleights, but not so easy, 3=Some sleights used,
4=Advanced sleights used, 5=Suitable for experienced magicians only)
Variable, but 3-4. The odd 5 (the ability to work with coins whilst holding out 3 in CP is required in one effect).
Review
There's plenty of material in here, but much of the card work can be achieved by easier means. I've come up with alternate handlings for a couple of the card tricks in there (because I loved the plot, but figured that if there's an easier handling possible - why not use it!?).
The coin work is fantastic, although there's a bit of repetition - lots of coins across effects! The 3 fly is ok, but I've seen better methods. Everything is well explained, and I really did enjoy the coin effects in it.
The lack of gimmicks is nice to see - I think an ex*****d s**ll is the only required gimmick.
The first routine 'Missing Link' is absolutely fantastic. It's a linking rubber band trick - and the best I've seen. You can literally hold one band with just the index fingers of each hand and allow the other to DANGLE from it. It's fantastic. Again, no gimmicks.
The writing style is great. And there's some magical dingbats to help you through it!
Overall
7/10. The material is great, but there seems to be a bit of filler unfortunately.
I'd thoroughly recommend it - particularly for the rubber band effect. However, beginners should stay away - there's a lot of finger-flingy moves.