If you were to go to the movies you would expect a decently made film since there are unstated expectations from the audience.  Not so for magic videos.   There are magic videos numbering in the thousands of which the production value ranges from unbelievably poor to studio quality.  The issue is that there is no standard for the production of magic training videos.  Luis De Matos, Portugal’s version of David Copperfield, must have sensed a need for a video series that not only featured well-known magicians but also would have a consistent look and feel throughout the set.

The Essential Magic Collection consists of 15 video albums of different magicians.  The production quality is consistent throughout.  The album cases all match, the box design, and DVD compartments all match each other in construction.  There are always four DVDs to each set.  The formatting of the presentation is consistent throughout as well.  There is always the performance show, the interview and then followed by the explanations.  Each disc ends with an interview where you get to know the performer and it always filmed the same way. 

So why is this a big deal?  It’s a big deal because the consumers, namely us, know what they will be getting for their money.  If they liked the first set they bought, they already know what the others will offer.  I’m proof of this myself.  Although I do not have time to watch all the videos I have already, whenever one of these EMC sets go on sale, I purchase it.  I know that when eventually I get to watch it I will not be disappointed.  Since Luis De Matos is from Portugal it is not surprising he started featuring the magicians from the Spanish Magic School.  Eventually, he broadened his scope and featured American and European magicians.  The list is as follows, Woody Aragon, Dani DaOrtiz (2 albums), Juan Luis Rubiales, Miguel Angel Gea, Miguel Puga, Lennart Green, Joshua Jay, David Williamson, Bernard Billis, Finn Jonn, Rene Lavand, Max Maven, Paul Daniels and himself Luis De Matos.

The Essential Magic Collection is a beautiful array of work that sets the standard for what magic videos should be.  See for yourself what a beautiful production these albums are.  As a side note, the individual “singles” are available as well and are just as finely produced as the albums. 

To view the collection click below:

http://essentialmagiccollection.com/