The AD looks good, the demo looks even better but is this as good and practical? Let’s take a look at what you will be getting. In this DVD package, you will get 2 gimmicks (basic and lucky card gimmick), a little something which is common and easily available and threads. I mentioned the thread (not exposing this effect) here because these are sold as refills too. There is also a piece of instruction sheet with additional tips and ideas included.
The instructional DVD is very detailed but I find the pace too slow. The performance segment is kinda boring and slow too. There are 3 routines shown and taught in the DVD.
The standard routine (The Hawk) – which can be a visual addition to your ACR.
The Stealth Hawk – uses a coin and is done hands free.
The lucky card – uses a different but similar gimmick.
Out of these 3 routines, I like the Stealth Hawk (in terms of the effect) the most as this is done hands free and it is very visual too. You will need to modify your Hawk gimmick to do this version. After the modification, you will not be able to use the same gimmick to do the standard version. I don’t feel it is practical enough to do it in a walk around gig as often as you want. After a few performances, you will need to use the “something” to make it work again.
Upon performing the visual change, you will need to remove the signed card as the gimmick cannot withstand close scrutiny. The gimmick will not last you forever, that’s why refills are sold but you can also make them yourself too.
Apart from teaching methods with using the Hawk, Alexander’s ACR is also taught. This routine is quite the standard routine that most people perform. If you have never learned an ACR before, this is a good place to start.
The teaching method in this DVD is very detailed and a “summary” segment is shown after the explanations. This is the explanation done without words. Nice selection of soundtracks too.
I find the preparation a bit cumbersome if you intend to perform this often. Other than that, the effect itself is very visual and you will be able to impress your spectators. This is recommended for those who want to increase the visual impact on their ACR. Rating 3.5/5
PS: I am listening to the soundtrack while writing this review. If you have the DVD, you will be able to enjoy this track on the menu page.