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boinko Elite user Illinois 427 Posts |
I'm sitting through a marathon viewing of Ammar's 'Easy to Master Card Miracles' -- and I realized it's the DVD set out of all that I own that I watch the most.
It dawned on me while watching Ammar perform Paul Harris' 'Reset' (my favorite trick of all time) that it'd be great if there was an updated set -- maybe Ammar, maybe a different performer -- with the same basic premise, with most of the same tricks (swap in some new ones), but with updated or alternate handlings. I realized Ammar's handling from this set are the ones I use the most (Twisting the Aces, Reset, Ambitious Classic) -- but I'd love to see him perform these fresh -- a new audience especially -- and see a 'refresh' of the entire set. I'd buy it all over again -- especially to get Ammar's updated thoughts and the alternate handlings. I realize most folks might say there's not much to improve on -- but what does everybody else think? Is it time for a refresh of this fantastic DVD set? Is this a crazy idea? Dumb idea? |
Raj Suman Veteran user 318 Posts |
The set is a classic.like film remakes, they rarely live up to the original. So I would say enjoy them and let's not reinvent an inferior version.
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Daniel Clemente Special user Mount Joy, PA 790 Posts |
I have this set as well...but I have it on good ol' VHS! I haven't watched them in a long time, but you've intrigued me to go pull them out and convert them to DVD! I say don't change anything...the effects on those tapes just work! They are all excellent effects...my favorite always was the trick I think it was called "Virginia City Shuffle" Baffled the hell out of me the first time I saw it!!
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Blindside785 Inner circle Olympia, WA 4541 Posts |
As cool as it would be I don't think it would happen.
The thing is there are so many "fresh" versions now that are from a variety of sources from other creators. My preferred... Twisting the Aces - A version I use now that is in "Above the Fold" by Rich Aviles Reset - I now use ReSwindled by Caleb Wiles that is found in his "High Spots" book and "Rematched" DVD Ambiitous - John Carey has a sweet version, Oz Pearlman has his version, Michael Eaton has his version, all these I have used before. I just think there are too many alternate handlings already out it just wouldn't happen. |
Chessmann Inner circle 4242 Posts |
Quote:
On 2014-02-05 11:22, Raj Suman wrote: But we would have the same main character, and the same actor portraying the main character On the other hand, Godzilla never truly re-captured the magic he had in his first flick. Then again, I can't see Ammar doing something like this in a potential remake:
My ex-cat was named "Muffin". "Vomit" would be a better name for her. AKA "The Evil Ball of Fur".
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EddieM Regular user Experienced but only 172 Posts |
I agree that this should NOT be remade. Why mess with a good thing! I used to have the first few volumes on VHS as well, but I have since purchased (or upgraded to) digital versions of it. I know that all nine volumes are now sold as digital downloads, which I actually prefer over DVD's these days (so that I can access it anywhere I want).
Easy to Master Card Miracles - Downloads While some of these volumes may look slightly dated (compared to some of the fancy-shmancy editing that producers are doing these days), I personally think these classic titles are priceless and pack more information than most of the new stuff to hit the market.
- EddieM
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Chessmann Inner circle 4242 Posts |
I say, "Why not?" If they are re-made with Ammar, and he has new insights, etc..., and there is a market for it, no reason not to bring it on.
I would imagine the only obstacles would be a) would Ammar desire to do it over again, whatever the reason, and b) would the producers feel it would make money. Certainly not necessary, but done right, it could be very interesting.
My ex-cat was named "Muffin". "Vomit" would be a better name for her. AKA "The Evil Ball of Fur".
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robvh Elite user Calgary, AB 440 Posts |
I would be in favour of a new series but not with the same material. It would be interesting to have some overlap with updated handlings and variations IF they are very substantial improvements. That would be a great lesson in itself for magicians to see how an effect, with some thought and ingenuity, can be raised up to a whole new level. That would make for great post-explanation commentary too.
So... present those classic "Easy to Master" effects which feature substantial improvements and then add some "brand new classics". |
Cameron Francis V.I.P. 7025 Posts |
I think the whole point of the series was to introduce really good card tricks to beginners. Just a tool with which to start the journey into card magic. Therefore, I think an "updating" would be useless. If you want advanced handlings of the tricks, there are plenty of other resources out there.
The tricks are still great. The handlings are still solid. Other than having a more contemporary look, what would be the point? BTW, I love the series. Still go back to it to see certain classic effects.
MOMENT'S NOTICE LIVE 3 - Six impromptu card tricks! Out now! http://cameronfrancismagic.com/moments-notice-live-3.html
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robvh Elite user Calgary, AB 440 Posts |
I agree with some of your comments, Francis, which is why in my post just above yours I don't advocate simply an "updated clone". You ask what the point would be and I address that.
For a new batch of beginners, they're getting a mix of better handlings along with a batch of "modern classics". For previous fans of the series, they would get the new routines but also a potentially fascinating look at how some old classics have evolved and been improved. Valuable lessons all around. I think that would offer more content and education than the majority of one-trick DVDs out there (not to take away from some of the very good ones available). |
SmittyWitty Veteran user Fairhaven, MA 324 Posts |
The Ammar ETM series is still my "go to" DVDs when looking for new stuff. As we all know there is a ton of other card guys that put out excellent video collections (Ortiz, Close, Armstrong to name a few). But for variety ETM is still one of the best in my opinion.
But to answer the question - no I do not see a need to "refresh" the set. |
videoman Inner circle 6732 Posts |
The point is...would a new set sell well?
Probably not is my guess, and dealers as well as the performer have to be make money or why bother? Not to mention that a set that large is very expensive to produce if done well. To those that don't own it already, they can just buy the existing one and the profit margin is high. Would enough who already own the existing one shell out for the new set? Doesn't sound like it if the posts so far are any indication. I certainly wouldn't invest any of my own money in the project. Would anyone? I wouldn't hold my breath. |
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