One of the most fascinating things in the world, to me, is the history of magic. I have a true passion for the art, but I fear that on many, many levels magic is possibly heading in a wrong direction. People - magicians and lay people alike - have lost the respect for the art. I think it's that level of respect felt by men like Vernon and Marlo and Paul Harris and others that makes a magician truly study and invest him/herself into our art.

I've sensed for a long time, however, that people are losing that passion and interest. Magic, on some levels, has been reduced to a bunch of kids who think that if they own an invisible deck that they'll be as 'cool' as Angel or Blaine. It's a bit depressing sometimes. However, along comes Donna Zuckerbrot, an excellent film producer with a passion for the mysterious and strange, to save the day! I think it's safe to say that most people like a good documentary if it's about an interesting subject, and what's more interesting than a DVD with a title like 'The Houdini Code.'

The great thing about the Donna Zuckerbrot films is that they have a wide appeal. They're not for 'magicians only.' It was a Houdini book I read as a kid that sparked my obsession with magic. The stories and events in his life, the rich history, his love of the art was all very exciting to me. It inspired me.

However, In today's world of nobody-reads-a-book-anymore-because-video-is-easier, Donna Zuckerbrot, has in her grasp, the ability to single-handedly shift the tracks of the magic train to an even more wonderful route and direction.

The Houdini Code was inspiring, fascinating, thorough, exciting and more. I absolutely loved it. It gets my highest recommendation. I think everyone should watch this. I really can see this film inspiring some young magicians to become serious students and develop a true passion for this amazing art that soooooo many people take for granted.

As for the style, cinematography, etc... one word: Brilliant. This is top quality professional work here, not some low-budget group of magicians filming stuff in their backyards. This is Hollywood-level quality and production value. I see no downside to owning this DVD. In fact, with a price tag of $20.00 bucks, the only downside I see is that if you don't own it, it means you shouldn't have wasted your money on food; you should have ordered this DVD.

Final Verdict:
5 Stars With a Stone Status of GEM!