If that's a prerequisite for these DVDs, shouldn't that be in the dealer ads?

Is it just me, or are (it seems) the magicians among us finding this good and impressive, yet the mentalists here are finding it less impressive and valuable? Just curious?

when I think of Scryer I think mentalism not magic.

Any Scryer material I've read seems more like psychic reading mixed with basic mentalism. There hasn't been much in the way of magic, apart from a presentation of the ashes on palm worthy of Derek Acorah.

No Tim, martin seemed confused he does not get it ,so that's why I wrote that comment. You either get it or you don't , that's simple to understand .

Now that's what I call an endorsement! Love your subtle sarcasm!

Scryer

if you are lurking, thank you for understanding that mentalism is about Presentation, Presentation, Presentation.

H

In response to Martin's: "Any Scryer material I've read seems more like psychic reading mixed with basic mentalism."

Sorry, Guys, but that is kind of the way I have read it too. I have only read Black and White and Carnival (twice each), and I share Martin's general characterization of the material.

I have appreciated being introduced to a smorgasbord of the things that psychics apparently believe in, and to the experiences they want for people. And I appreciate the innovation within some of the basic mentalism material that obscures the method and enhances the effect; Scryer's "Paper Bag Psychometry" is a splendid example, and I can see myself performing that.

My sense is that Scryer books are very useful for Mentalists on the psychic side of the spectrum, but less so for those of us who are not on that side. I am still confused enough by the endorsements of several top non-psychic mentalists that I want to check it out more thoroughly that I ordered the DVD set. However, unless the DVD's liberate me from my apparent blindness, I do not plan to buy more of the Scryer books at the prices they list for.

Oh, if in fact anyone had not yet heard that mentalism is mainly about Presentation, that would also be a plus for the project.

George

Well, the first two books did have the word psychic in them! so yeah, more old school psychic entertainment, and not a "psychological illusionist" model for sure...

apparently mine is shipping out tomorrow...

And I should add, one man's reading is another man's personality assessment...

for me, adding the "why" or the showing that you understand that person on some extra level, does add a very good extra oomph to the proceedings...not for absolutely everything, that would be overkill - but within a strong, solid context mixing mentalism in with reading/analysis elements is very good in my opinion...and I think more personable than being the great-i-am all the time...

and that's said as a person who is in neither camp, overtly...

I was just about to say that. The first two also read "Neal Scryer is the pseudonym of a successful New York mentalist and psychic." When these books came out, I immediately noticed an increase for "readings" and 'pendulum' work too. Exactly the kind of thing Martin doesn't care for. So I can understand his position on Scryer's material.

Hi Rod,

You're certainly right that I am no fan of psychic reading as a stand-alone practice, but I'm actually very fond of mixing some "reading' material in with mentalism effects. That's why I bought the books in the first place. I've just personally found most of the Scryer material I've read to be rather basic and clumsy, and I genuinely think some of the routining is dreadful in places.

Mixing some readings in, naturally... A man with your experience in the filed figured that blend out a long time ago. I wasn't implying otherwise to be clear. I would like to talk with you more openly but not here. I'll get in touch soon. Merry Christmas to you.

Martin ,seems you only are complaining about this Creator constantly .and no one else . You have complained like fifty times what's your motive . People make a point and they are finished you stay constantly here .

Actually Martins has made 8 posts on this forum so far, mainly answering you Carl. Where as you've made 23 post so far, what's your point.

Well, I did not know the actuall amount of posts from Martin or myself but thanks for bringing it to my attention.

You're welcome. I admire your defence of talented artist Carl but a balanced discussion here only ensures the right people, who will benefit from these DVD's, purchase them. They will stand on their own merit, I have no doubt. Listening to the reasons the others did not care for them actually has prompted me to order them. So no need to be so defensive, not everyone is going to like everything. I'm sure after reading all post, that for me, I will definitely benefit. My personal opinion is $99 for collective thoughts from such professional people is a bargain. sbays, and Martin just have a different opinion and I'm good with that.

I agree with you chance, you make a fine point . Everyone has differnt tastes and that's perfectly normal and understood .But at times we all get carried away . All good a blessed and healthy new year to you and Martin as well as every one else on the forum .

Thanks mate, coming from you it's greatly appreciated as I know you are a genuine guy with great passion for the art. You've made my day, thanks.

My pleasure wishing you the best in life . It's just so much hatred at times here ,maybe I am wrong but would love to see people happy here.