Focal Point Review
Last week Andrew Mayne sent me a preview copy of his new effect called Focal Point. Unfortunately, there’s no other information out at this time, so I can’t give you a price or a link to it. You’ll need to just keep looking around. What I can tell you is this:
You introduce several antique photographs collected from around the world. A spectator is invited to freely select one to focus upon. After a moment of concentration you begin to zero in on the spectator’s thoughts and reveal the selected photograph. However, in a strange climax, you leave the spectator wondering if they imagined it all when the chosen photograph is turned over to reveal a completely blurred image.
+ Complete with everything needed to perform
+ Spectator has a totally free choice
+ Resets instantly
+ Includes alternate routines
Once again, like with every other Andrew Mayne product I’ve reviewed, the ad copy is dead on. It’s very refreshing to see a magician that can put out products that speak for themselves without having to resort to “clever” or “creative” wording on the packaging. The spectator really does have a fair choice, there are no sneaky moves, it’s clever as hell, and the reset is a breeze. This is perfect for the strolling magician.
I’ve tried this out a couple times already, and it’s absolutely killed both times. The effect of revealing a thought of photograph is enough, but when you hit them with the kicker of their chosen photo being blurred beyond recognition, you can almost see minds melting. Although I’m not going to tip it here, make sure you pay attention to the line used during the reveal part of the demo. It’s so full of drama and it sets the mood so well, it’s not even funny.
The DVD is short, clocking in at just over 16 minutes, but that’s plenty of time to teach the effect. It is technically very easy, requiring one or two minor sleights (if you can even consider them sleights), but performance is really going to be key on this one. As with all mentalism, you’ll need to act a bit. There’s a fine line between having no presentation and overacting, and as long as you keep careful balance on that line, you’ll be fine. He also teaches 4 alternate handlings for the effect, including how to adapt the principle behind Focal Point for the stage.
Also included with the DVD is a packet of antique wallet sized photographs. They are printed on glossy, heavy stock. I’ve carried mine around in the cargo pocket of my pants with no problems, but I’d still be careful with them. This isn’t something you want to stick in your wallet and let it get beat to hell, unless your wallet has sufficient space so they won’t get damaged. The backs of the photographs are black and show fingerprints quite well, so you may want to wipe them down on your shirt occasionally just to keep things looking nice. Although I’m confident that these will last a long time, it would be nice to see a refill pack available for purchase just in case.
All in all, I think this is a great effect. It’s direct, hits hard, and packs very small. This is the perfect effect to stick in your pocket for a night of table hopping or strolling, and it plays well to audiences of all ages. It’s definitely a worthy investment, and worth a look once it’s finally released.
Andster
Update: When I wrote this, the effect wasn’t officially released yet. It’s gone live today, and instead of rewriting the whole review, I’ll put extra information right here. It’s only $20 in the US (well worth every penny, too) and available from andrewmayne.com There’s also a demo video available there.