Make Believe (2010)

Six of the world's best young magicians battle for the title of Teen World Champion.

Director:

Clay Tweel (as J. Clay Tweel)

Writer:

Cleven S. Loham

Stars:

Ed Alonzo, Albert M. Belmont Jr., Gay Blackstone

1 win.

Cast

Credited cast:
Ed Alonzo	...	Himself
Albert M. Belmont Jr.	...	Himself
Gay Blackstone	...	Herself
Eugene Burger	...	Himself
Lance Burton	...	Himself
Joan Caesar	...	Herself
Bill Cook	...	Himself (as Bill Koch)
Joe Diamond	...	Himself
Bob Dorian	...	Himself
Kyle Eschen	...	Himself
Siphiwe Fangase	...	Himself
Eric Giliam	...	Himself
Andrew Goldenhersh	...	Himself
William Goodwin	...	Himself
David Gore	...	Himself

Storyline

Six of the world's best young magicians battle for the title of Teen World Champion.

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Plot Keywords:

magician | competition | magic | teenager | 

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Taglines:

Pick a Star. Any Star.

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Genres:

Documentary

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Certificate:

Not Rated

Details

Official Sites:

Official site

Country:

USA Japan South Africa

Language:

English

Release Date:

13 May 2011 (USA)

Filming Locations:

Las Vegas, Nevada, USA

Company Credits

Production Co:

Firefly Theater & Films,Level 22

Technical Specs

Runtime:

88 min

Color:

Color

Did You Know?

Connections

Featured in Ebert Presents: At the Movies: Episode #1.19 (2011)

User Reviews

Character driven with a lot of heart.

Just had the chance to see Make Believe yesterday at the Los Angeles Film Festival where it was announced the film had one "Best Documentary." I can see why. In a time where, more often than not, documentary films are about making statements and arguments, Make Believe allows us to meet a number of young magicians, each one of whom has a fascinating story is a truly interesting character.

By focusing on youth who happen to be competing at the World Magic Teen Competition, rather than making it a documentary ABOUT the competition, the filmmakers let us take our time in meeting and interacting with each of the magicians. Offering no judgement while simultaneously avoiding any over-glorification, the right tone is hit perfectly to simply explore a world.

Yes, there's a slightly heavy handed message that magic lets the awkward communicate on a world stage...but they don't push it too hard. All in all, a great documentary. Let's hope I can see it on Netflix soon.