Our Magic

Strictly for aficionados of magic acts, filmmaker R. Paul Wilson's Our Magic is a rather dry documentary centering on philosophical questions surrounding the craft of magic, asked and answered by stage magicians (including Juan Tamariz, Ton Onosaka, and John Gaughan) who are most likely entirely unknown to anyone outside the field. Beginning with a question no interviewee seems capable of clearly answering (“What is magic?”), the endless conversation covers the role of old-fashioned magic shops in encouraging newcomers to the trade; the supreme importance of the presentation of a trick over the trick itself; and why nightclub comedians are loath to share the stage with magicians. Also discussed is the role of magic in bringing wonder to technology and science, and how the best magicians use what they do as an expressive art form. What's missing from this film—and glaringly so—is magic: actual moments of conjuring, disappearing, card tricks, or anything else that might break up the monotony of voices. Still, those seriously interested in magic may glean some insights here, so consider this a strong optional purchase. Aud: C, P. (T. Keogh)