Saturday, September 12, 2009

Derren Brown: Is hubris setting in?

We knew Derren Brown had not really predicted the lottery numbers in advance. And we knew it was most unlikely he would tell us how it was done. He is, after all, an illusionist, and illusionists don't give away the tricks of their trade.

But we were entitled, particularly given the build up it was given, that he would deliver an entertaining programme yesterday evening. As it turned out, it was merely dull - not remotely worthy of the publicity.

Brown has a certain slacker charm - think of him as the Ben Goldacre of the Magic Circle - but is hubris setting in?

If he is thinking he can give us any old rubbish and we will still tune in, he may be disappointed. Some of us will not be watching next time.

6 comments:

  1. The problem is that he said he would tell us how he did it - then didn't. That isn't magic, it is lying.

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  2. Not only lying but an insult to the intelligence of any semi-numerate viewer.

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  3. Absolutely, and I echo Duncan's point - I was expecting explanations, but all he did was vaguely cite theories, then show footage of his team of annoying volunteers. And yes, this was dull.

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  4. If he can predict tha lottery numbers, why not prove it and win it next week?
    Offering to explain payed off in the viewing figures, but left most people disillusioned in the illusionist

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  5. I had never heard of him till yesterday (he's not on radio 4) and saw him walking on glass. Reminded me of Shamans walking on glowing coals and not getting burnt. Loved the heartbeat stuff. But shan't be watching again.

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  6. Well, I won't be watching him when tries to 'control the country' or some BS to that effect.

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