He is great at sleight-of-hand. He can even fool magicians with his manipulations. I like him mostly for his humor. Watching him perform mentalism does not make it boring. He is also very knowledgable with the history of magic and mentalism.

He has good DVD's teaching mentalism. They could of been more professional. But I understand, he wants others to earn a higher level on their own.

But he is NOT one of us!!!

I love Max, and the reason why some people don't understand his character sometimes is obscure to me. Maybe he is 'too much' for earthlings like us!

...'Boo'

Ken Weber makes exactly that point in Maximum Entertainment...Max never became the superstar that Kreskin or Dunninger became because he was too different from the common man.



Curt

But a man who likes professional wrestling, can't be half bad:)

I for one have learned a lot from watching him. That being said, I could see how some could be put off by his character and persona. But noone can please everyone.

I saw Max perform at a convention in California about 25 years ago and haven't looked at magic the same way since (really).

He will be lecturing and performing in the stage show at NEMCON Saturday March 10th.
http://www.magicsam127.org/nemcon.htm

Agreed, He is an inspiration.

Max IMHO is the perfect mentalist. If I could wish to be someone else it would be Max Maven.

Quite short with weird hair?

I got inspired into mentalism by watching his act.

It's revealing to see the varying opinions about the same deservedly famous performer. Life, in a nutshell! Happens in music, sports, politics, etc., etc.

Max Maven was my first inspiration for doing Mentalism. And his work was truly awe-inspiring! No doubt he is a brilliant mind, and studied master of his craft. However, I have been put off by his occasional smugness and condescending attitude.

On the other hand, there are several well known mentalists who tip the scales a little on the other side (for my taste) - not terribly articulate, and can come across a little 'side-show barker.'

So, who's the "just right porridge" for this Goldi Locks???? Well, that would, hopefully be what I'm working on. After all, aren't we all just amalgams of our inspirations and experiences?

I think Max Maven (and Bob Cassidy too) were two major inspirations for many magicians entering into Mentalism.

I saw Max's one man show in California last year, and I agree that he is a master showman. He has created and maintained a mysterious image, and the lay public really seems to enjoy what he does.




J

The correct term is, "Outside Talker".