Magic Tricks

3 stars? Well, that's middle ground, so I guess that would be "average." Fell short for a couple of reasons: first, package arrived with no instructions: no link, no Qcode, no hieroglyphics, no nothing. And yes, I checked every packaged item, all packaging materials, everything in and out.

Called customer support on Tuesday, following Memorial Day weekend at their local opening time. Left message. No response. Later emailed. No response. Finally tried the "chat" feature and Erik helped immediately by giving me the passcode to Jon Allen's instructional video. Still, I paid over $400 for this item, and thought I should have received the appropriate insert.

Later in the day received a call and was told they were off for the weekend (remember this was Tuesday.) But whatever. Asked him to supply the instructional material I should have received. Not a great response.

Now, the most frustrating part is that 2 of the gimmmicks of the product came detached during my first runthru. Without saying too much, I have tried three times to reattach only to have them detach again. This is the PAIN in Pain Game. Will try a different material to reattach this afternoon, but will add additional time and expense to find the right material. Again, this is for a $400 prop.

I am reminded of how many have pontificated about how the magic community is the only one who takes it upon themselves to fix inferior/damaged products rather than return.

As for the PRODUCT/METHOD itself (less the mentioned problems I'm having) I am quite impressed. Jon does a nice job of explaining, although I wish I had received access to the vid before buying additional bags... he explains a "substitution" that was made. Now I will have to cut the bags to his suggested measurements. I cannot see how anyone could hurt themselves by using the enclosed items and correct procedures Jon lays out. Is it ONE HUNDRED PERCENT safe? No, because someone COULD miss a step, and there's always someone who just... well,you know.

Jon presents the tutorial with some nice humor, but his presentation is quite serious. I believe I will add elements of Scott Alexander's "Nailed It" to my presentation to lighten the mood, while still maintaining the danger effect.