Deceptive Practice: The Mysteries and Mentors of Ricky Jay

Deceptive Practice is a journey into the realm of modern magic with the multitalented Ricky Jay, a world-renowned magician, author, historian and actor. Touted as one of magic’s greatest, Jay is dedicated to researching, teaching, performing and perfecting his craft. Magicians would normally be reluctant to let their secrets out, let alone allow a documentary crew to peek behind their velvet curtain, but Jay allows directors Molly Bernstein and Alan Edelstein to do just that.

It’s engrossing and captivating, with a simple premise masterfully executed. On top of showing the multitude of skills Jay possesses as a historian and magician (one of the greatest sleight of hand artists in history to be precise), Jay is also a brilliant storyteller, narrating and spinning yarns that pull his audience into his world even more. Even viewers that aren’t fascinated by magic and know nothing of the vast and storied history of Jay himself should be taken in by his gruff charm and sly grin as he effortlessly pulls off tricks right in front of the camera, many times while talking directly at the audience.

The historical aspect will fascinate those intrigued with sleight of hand but may run long for those who aren’t as invested. Despite this, Deceptive Practice is a damn hard film to dislike

– See more at: http://dorkshelf.com/2013/07/05/this-week-at-the-bloor-7513/#sthash.fA3vyQd8.dpuf

Deceptive Practice: The Mysteries and Mentors of Ricky Jay

Deceptive Practice is a journey into the realm of modern magic with the multitalented Ricky Jay, a world-renowned magician, author, historian and actor. Touted as one of magic’s greatest, Jay is dedicated to researching, teaching, performing and perfecting his craft. Magicians would normally be reluctant to let their secrets out, let alone allow a documentary crew to peek behind their velvet curtain, but Jay allows directors Molly Bernstein and Alan Edelstein to do just that.

It’s engrossing and captivating, with a simple premise masterfully executed. On top of showing the multitude of skills Jay possesses as a historian and magician (one of the greatest sleight of hand artists in history to be precise), Jay is also a brilliant storyteller, narrating and spinning yarns that pull his audience into his world even more. Even viewers that aren’t fascinated by magic and know nothing of the vast and storied history of Jay himself should be taken in by his gruff charm and sly grin as he effortlessly pulls off tricks right in front of the camera, many times while talking directly at the audience.

The historical aspect will fascinate those intrigued with sleight of hand but may run long for those who aren’t as invested. Despite this, Deceptive Practice is a damn hard film to dislike. (Kirk Haviland)

– See more at: http://dorkshelf.com/2013/07/05/this-week-at-the-bloor-7513/#sthash.fA3vyQd8.dpuf