Collins Aces (World's Greatest Magic) Review

Official Review

March 19th, 2009 2:57pm Rating:

Reviewed by Gordon Meyer

If you want to learn the Collins' Aces, this would certainly be an inexpensive and efficient way to do so. By the time you've watched all six performances on the DVD you'll probably dream about Collins' Aces. The DVDs in this "world's greatest magic" series are, by intent, redundant. But this one is even more repetitious than most because Stanley Collins' trick is very process heavy, so the presentation (apparently) must be expositive. Deal and count. Deal, count, and spell, if you're the Trevor Lewis kicker finish. A good value to be sure, but do yourself a favor and go sit in the sunshine after you've watched it. You'll deserve a break.

Product info for Collins Aces (World's Greatest Magic)

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THE COLLINS' ACES In 1912, legendary British conjuror Stanley Collins invented a card trick where the four Aces inexplicably vanished almost in plain sight of the spectators. The trick (versions of which were originally named, alternatively, the Omega Ace Trick and the Omega Ace Trick) immediately caught the attention of the magic world as no gaffed cards were utilized - just an ordinary shuffled deck. Through the years, the trick became referred to by its originator's name - the Collins' Aces - and it still remains a revered part of just about every notable card worker's repertoire.

On this DVD, you'll see six different magicians, each with their own spin on this classic of card magic. Martin Lewis has made the Collins' Aces a featured part of his close-up repertoire for some time, featuring his finale where the Aces are rediscovered after their vanish by simply spelling to them. Martin is here to disclose all of the minute details of his singular handling. Bill Malone is next with his take on Martin Lewis' version of the trick, featuring some great flourishes you'll want to add to your card handling arsenal. Legendary bar magician J. C. Wagner's version features adds an Ace assembly finish to the Collins trick while Michael Ammar has some additional touches on the Martin Lewis version. Alex Elmsley has his own spelling finish that, when it was first committed to video, delighted a room full of very well-posted magicians. You'll find the complete explanation here. To finish, Jim Swain adds a delightful poker deal finish.

The Collins' Aces has become a classic for good reason. It's mystifying for an audience and genuinely fun and satisfying to perform. It's even been said that it's the best four-Ace trick you can do with a regular deck of cards - and you'll find six very compelling and convincing arguments for that position on this DVD.

• Spelling Collins' Aces - Martin Lewis
• Collins/Lewis Vanishing Aces - Bill Malone
• J. C. On Collins' Aces - J. C. Wagner
• Spelling Collins' Aces - Michael Ammar
• Collinspell - Alex Elms