Jamie Daws is well known for his atmospheric magic releases with slightly darker themes. That being the case, perhaps it was a mistake to review The Deceased on the day I went to a funeral…

In it he has taken what was really an old card force (not attributed – but I’m pretty sure I’ve seen the basic idea before) and added a few subtle convincers which have really lifted the effect. Combine that with an engaging presentation and you have a winning combination.

In brief, after explaining the story of a dinner where 8 of the 10 guests were murdered, you show the spectator 10 photographs of the dinner guests. You and the spectator each select a photograph behind your backs and they are shown to be the two murderers. To make the point even clearer, the other 8 cards are shown to have the word ‘dead’ on them.

jamie-daws-the-deceased-reviewYou’re supplied with the necessary photographs, a black envelope to contain the ‘prediction’ and a short DVD explaining the routine. The photographs are nicely printed on a decent card stock and so should last some time – indeed as they age they will seem more authentic. Some people will no doubt debate the authenticity of the pictures etc. etc. For me, the story is the thing, and with a well-told story spectators will ‘suspend their disbelief’ – but if you want to go to the process of ageing them etc. feel free.

The explanation is relatively short but to the point. The method is extremely simple and so not complicated to explain. Jamie includes a few nice details on the way which add to the overall strength of the routine. And the explanation is in discussion with Dave Loosely – who helpfully chips in with a few other points.

The photos come without any writing on them which allows you to customise the wording to your own language – or indeed presentation. I’m already wondering about a variation using the story of the Tolpuddle martyrs (though there were only 6 of them!) or the 17 Lewes martyrs. I’m sure you can come up with locally relevant variations yourself.

Like many recent Alakazam releases, a code is provided on the DVD which gives you access to further ideas and updates via the Alakazam website. This includes a video explaining a completely different type of presentation using playing cards (I think I prefer the original) and a video explaining how to ‘age’ your cards with the amusing title ‘ageing the deceased’… As mentioned above, I’m not entirely sure that is necessary – but for those who do it is there.

At £23.99 (at the time of writing) I would say that The Deceased is a trifle over-priced for what you get. But that being said, I really like the simplicity of the method which allows you to invest heavily in your presentation. Reset is all but instantaneous. It would be easy to overlook because of the simplicity of the method, but in the right performance situation, this could be a very effective piece leaving a lasting impact.

This is the first of a planned series of releases – and if they are all as strong as this then they are well worth looking out for.

The Deceased is available from Merchant of Magic at £23.99.

Review copy kindly provided by Murphys Magic to whom dealer enquiries should be directed.

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