Random I-Tunes Song of The Moment: Wasted Time By Skid Row
You'd be hard-pressed to find a bigger fan of Skid Row (especially this tune) or a bigger fan of Bill Malone, but I must say that on this particular DVD, I was slightly disappointed. It's definitely the least favorite of the three in the Here I Go Again 3 disk set.
I felt some of Malone's performances, while filled with funny lines, were a lot more rushed and 'put and take' than usual. I felt that in many cases he didn't let the magic moment sink in, and he was very rigid on his scripting. I normally wouldn't make a huge deal out of this. However, one of the main reasons I recommend Malone's stuff is so you can see him perform. His DVDs have always (for me) been about watching a pro at work, and less about the methods and effects.
So on this DVD, you get average performances from Malone and some ok to average effects (with a couple exceptions).
Below is a list of each effect followed by the official ad copy, a brief word from me and a 1 to 5 rating.
Thinking Man's Sponge Ball Routine!
Ad Copy: A sponge ball routine you will use! Bill's performed this routine for over 25 years!
My Thoughts: You have to be seated, and it's a little bit too fast paced for my style, but there are some great magical moments . . . it's worth considering
Rating: 3.5
Marlo's Color-Changing Deck Routine!
Ad Copy: Bill's presentation and touches on another Marlo masterpiece!
My Thoughts: Meh . . . it was a bit cluttered and too 'busy' for my taste.
Rating: 2.5
Mind-Reading Magician!
Ad Copy: Bill's presentation and thoughts on the Chicago Opener/Red Hot Mama!
My Thoughts: Again, busy and cluttered. I'd stick with the original on this. However, the premise of this version may be worth considering . . . the 'mind reading' angle.
Rating: 2.5
Keeping My Money Safe! S.A.N.D.Y.
Ad Copy: This is an absolutely unbelievable Coins Across by Bill's friend, Dave Neighbors. This routine is a killer!
My Thoughts: This is a faced-paced (too much so) routine that requires you own a certain set of gimmicked coins, but man there are some beautiful moments.
Rating: 4.5
Dealing A Good Hand!
Ad Copy: Bill's handling of the famous Marlo-Gardner Poker Deal!
My Thoughts: Stick with the original, but consider the Paul Harris gag that Malone starts the routine with; it's clever.
Rating: 3.5
The Six-Card Trick! - 'Sorry for the Delay'
Ad Copy: A Joe Riding effect with touches and additions by Bill and his old friend from the New York Magic Lounge, Terry Vecky!
My Thoughts: I hate tricks like this . . . sorry. It's basically six card repeat done in a flurry of counting, talking and dealing . . . not a fan.
Rating: 1.5
Ravelli's Waterfall Shuffle
Ad Copy: Ron Wohl's brilliant false shuffle from the late 1960s!
My Thoughts: One of the best false shuffles ever. It'll take some serious dedication to learn, but so worth it.
Rating: 4.5
Steve Forte's 'No Look Aces'
Ad Copy: From 'The Man' himself! Steve allowed Bill to share this great visual Ace cutting demonstration!
My Thoughts: The best part about this effect is how 'real' it looks. It's very visual and very deceptive. It's worth learning just for the moves.
Rating: 4
In addition to the effects, we get, 'Bill's Tips:
- 'Putting Together a Stand-Up Show'
- 'My Trade Show Pitch'
- 'Drilling a Good Show Into Your Head'
- 'Following Up With Your Clients'
I'd give this whole 'tips' section - though it's spread throughout the DVD - a 4.5 star rating. There are some great tips and ideas.
The Average Trick rating is 3.3 . . . throw in some good tips, and deduct a little for a more-rambley-than-usual Malone and you're left with . . .
Final Verdict:
3 star DVD with a final Stone rating of gem with a really, really small 'g.'