Make Believe

Make Believe makes for a magical viewing experience.

Published: 10/20/2011

by Michael Berick

$20, www.makebelievethemovie.com

How many of us have watched a magician and thought “Wouldn’t it be cool to be able to do magic?” The new documentary Make Believe focuses on six teenagers who are trying to do just that. The filmmakers follow these magical kids from around the globe on their goal of winning the Teen World Championship. There’s Krystyn the blonde Malibu girl, Bill the Chicago boy and young Derek from Colorado. Also, two kids from South Africa come to America for the competition, as does a teen from a remote Japanese village.

The film provides an interesting look into these kids’ lives, showing their interest in magic and how hard they have to work to try and be the best. The documentary also includes some adult perspectives – from parents, mentors and professional magicians like Lance Burton.

One nice segment includes young magicians who aren’t in the competition talking about those who are. They offer up constructive and insightful comments, not snarky reality show-style jabs. Another strong point of the film is how the Championship goes (we won’t give away the ending) and what happens to the kids afterward. Make Believe makes for a magical viewing experience.

Michael also recommends …

• Jem And The Holograms: Season One, $23.93, Shout! Factory

• The Looney Tunes Show: Season One, Volume One, $14.95, Warner Home Video

• Goosebumps: Ghost Beach, $14.98, 20th Century Fox Home Video

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