Explore Issue Two of The Neat Review

In this edition, we journey to New York City, presenting a striking contrast to Issue One and the perspectives from our London group. Asi Wind engages in a discussion about the intersection of magic and art as ephemeral experiences, examining the visible and invisible elements that captivate audiences. Tony Chang analyzes Ken Krenzel’s Mechanical Reverse, focusing on the intricacies of sleight of hand performance and the challenges presented by instructional methods in magic.

Professor Vera Tobin, a cognitive science expert, shares insights from her book Elements of Surprise: Our Mental Limits and the Satisfactions of Plot, exploring the cognitive processes behind plot twists and the essence of surprise in storytelling.

Join Ricky Smith and Benjamin Pratt on a nostalgic walking tour of New York City, reminiscent of Ricky’s time at The Conjuring Arts Research Center. Discover the rich history of magic in NYC, complemented by Benjamin’s photography. Hacker Éireann Leverett discusses lock-picking as a competitive sport, the art of overcoming “Anti-tamper” security measures, and the intriguing parallels between hacking and magic. Underground magicians Eric Hu and Tatanka Tan delve into ‘pipe dream’ tricks and the unique experiences they create for audiences. Together, Ricky, Eric, and Tatanka share a diverse array of card techniques.