Derren Brown has made the transition from illusion to mentalism. He is one of my favourite magicians although I’m not sure how hot I am about mentalism.
There is a certain type of magician, at least there was, who seemed to take delight in belittling and embarrassing audience members. I kinda think these guys went the same way as their 70s comedy counterparts. Thankfully. If I hear one more sarky magician give the “take them out of the box first!!” line in the invisible deck routine I’ll spoil the trick.
Now, the likes of Penn and Teller and Derren pride themselves in never patronising or condescending to the audience. They respect their audience.
Mr. Brown has also dipped his toe into self-help, although I very much doubt he’d like the term. He rips new age woo woo a new one in the opening chapters of “happy”.
Haven’t started this one yet but I imagine it’ll be every bit as illuminating.
Munkus Bubbly 