The Evolution of Phil Goldstein's Magic Tricks

Phil Goldstein, also known as Max Maven, is a renowned magician and mentalist. Born on December 21, 1950, in New York City, he has become one of the most influential figures in the world of magic. Goldstein developed a keen interest in magic at a young age and began performing professionally while still a teenager. He quickly gained attention for his unique style, blending mentalism and deception into captivating performances. His ability to seemingly read minds and predict the future has left audiences astounded worldwide. What sets Goldstein apart from other magicians is his focus on storytelling and psychology.

He appeared on hundreds of television and radio programs, including the lead role on Count DeClues’ Mystery Castle for the Fox network and guest-starring parts on Mork & Mindy, Fresh Prince of Bel-Air and General Hospital. In 1998, Maven developed and starred in the Canadian series The MAXimum Dimension, an offbeat educational show for younger viewers involving recreational mathematics which aired for 26 episodes on the TVO Network.

He was a Senior Research Consultant to the Center for Scientific Anomalies Research in Michigan, and on the Board of Advisors of the California Science Center in Los Angeles, where his interactive material was featured in the exhibit Magic The Science of Illusion that went on to tour museums across North America. Born Philip Goldstein on December 21, 1950 in Ithaca, NY, he created the character of Max Maven in the mid- 70s, always dressing in black with a distinctive widow s peak.

What sets Goldstein apart from other magicians is his focus on storytelling and psychology. He utilizes these elements to create an immersive experience for his audience, drawing them into his world of mystery and intrigue. His performances often involve audience participation, further enhancing the sense of wonder and astonishment.

Phil goldstein magif

I love this book the way that Phil Goldtein writes and almost all of the tricks included on it.
Picasso Aces, Shinkansen are 2 of my favorites

Which are yours?

I love this book too! I really think it's one of the most under rated card books out there.

I've got so many favourites, but one I'll mention is A Fine Mesh. It's so commercial, you can do it with the deck in play and it's reset ready to go again. Perfect for walkaround!

Focus is a great book. What always amazed me is that Max Maven formerly known as Phil Goldstein has put out such a huge body of work, and culling even sixty of his best card effects must have been quite a chore! I wonder if we will ever see a large compendium of his work? I think it would be one of the landmark tomes in the mystery arts.

Do a search and you'll find their have been several threads on Focus.

Jumping Bean Aces: Four Ace Assembly because I learned to perform a perfectly deceptive Mexican Turnover (it has not been an easy task to pass from acceptable to deceptive)

On 2010-03-30 04:35, TonyPorter wrote:
I love this book too! I really think it's one of the most under rated card books out there.

I've got so many favourites, but one I'll mention is A Fine Mesh. It's SO commercial, you can do it with the deck in play and it's reset ready to go again. Perfect for walkaround!

I'm not sure it could be considered under rated when it sold out and was later reprinted. Under- rated might be good books that do not sell well for one reason or another. However, if this thread brings it to the attention of cardworkers that bypassed it, that's a good thing. People who have only been in magic a few years should look back for good books rather than simply looking for "What's new?"

I think I've mentioned before that "Jumping Bean Aces" and "Tearable" are perhaps my most often used effects from this book, but there are others.

I purchased this book a number of years ago after seeing it for sale at a convention, I started going through it again a few weeks ago. the quality of material in there is exceptional. This should come as no surprise, given the source. FTL has quickly become one of my favorites. I've always felt that most Follow the Leader routines went on a little too long (10 cards in each pile), using eight cards allows for more directness without suffering from redundancy.

(Yes, others have used more cards to success, but I like simplicity).

On 2010-03-30 04:35, TonyPorter wrote:
I love this book too! I really think it's one of the most under rated card books out there.

I've got so many favourites, but one I'll mention is A Fine Mesh. It's SO commercial, you can do it with the deck in play and it's reset ready to go again. Perfect for walkaround!

I wholeheartedly agree. I learned this one about 10 years ago, have been performing it regularly since.

"Focus" is of course in its second edition, so if you love cards and don't have it, it may be wise to pick up a copy before it's out of print again. I doubt it will be reprinted a third time with fewer people reading these days.

Throughout his career, Goldstein has received numerous accolades and honors. He has been awarded the prestigious Fellowship of the Academy of Magical Arts and has been nominated for multiple awards, including the highly coveted FISM Grand Prix. He has also authored several books and released instructional videos, sharing his vast knowledge and expertise with aspiring magicians. In addition to his performances, Goldstein is actively involved in the magic community. He has mentored and inspired countless magicians, ensuring the art form continues to evolve and thrive. His contributions have earned him the respect and admiration of his peers. Phil Goldstein, or Max Maven, is a magician and mentalist who has left a lasting impact on the world of magic. With his innovative approach and captivating performances, he continues to amaze and enchant audiences worldwide..

Reviews for "The Philosophy of Magic: Insights from Phil Goldstein"

1. John - 1 star

I was extremely disappointed with "Phil Goldstein Magic". The tricks were underwhelming and predictable. There was nothing new or exciting about the performance. It felt like I've seen them all before. The show lacked creativity and didn't bring anything innovative to the table. I expected to witness mind-blowing illusions, but instead, I left feeling bored and unsatisfied. I would not recommend this show to anyone looking for a thrilling and awe-inspiring magic experience.

2. Sarah - 2 stars

"Phil Goldstein Magic" was just average in my opinion. The tricks were mediocre and didn't live up to my expectations. I've seen much better magic performances in the past. The pacing of the show was off, and there were moments of awkward silence that made it feel amateurish. The magician lacked charisma and didn't engage the audience effectively. While there were a few moments of intrigue, overall, it was a forgettable experience. I wouldn't go out of my way to see this show again.

3. Michael - 2 stars

I found "Phil Goldstein Magic" to be quite underwhelming. The tricks were predictable and lacked the wow factor. The magician's presentation and stage presence were lacking, and the overall performance felt uninspired. The show failed to capture my attention and left me feeling unimpressed. I was hoping for a captivating and mesmerizing experience, but unfortunately, it fell short. I would suggest looking for other magic performances that offer more excitement and originality.

Phil Goldstein's Magic: Where Science Meets Wonder