The Hidden Cost of Convenience: Part Two

In the ever-evolving world of magic, convenience often comes at a hidden cost.

In my previous blog, we explored how the ease of online shopping and instant gratification can undermine the traditional magic stores that have been the backbone of our community. Today, I want to delve deeper into a potentially disastrous venture that is further eroding the foundation of our beloved magic shops and the creators.

The following is to be taken as an example only and meant to open the eyes of the buyer as the makers of magic don't get the money of resales. There is currently no law against the resale of original magical effects...but there should be.

This venture begins innocuously enough with the online magic reviewer. These reviewers play a crucial role in our community by providing insights and critiques on new magic effects that either they buy or in nearly all cases, the effect is sent to them for free. Most reviewers rely on (youtube) views for income. Most reviews will be positive to provide views and the following however detrimental.

Once a reviewer gets their hands on a new trick, they often pass it on to an online performer. This performer, eager for (Insta & Youtube) views and engagement, showcases the trick to their audience and receives many reviews for their channel (the more video views the more they make (How, is another topic)).

The next step in this cycle is even more concerning. The trick is then handed over to a magician who exposes the trick. This exposure not only diminishes the value of the effect but also disrespects the creator’s intellectual property.

Finally, the trick finds its way to a magician who sells practically new magic online. These sales often occur at a fraction of the original cost, further devaluing the effect and making it less likely for magicians to purchase from legitimate sources.

It's a frightening thought to think that all of the above could be under one roof. All you need is a designated room equipped with chroma key and your environment can change per actor.

This cycle is particularly harmful because the effect is still relatively new, meaning there is little cost (from the reviewer) to buy magic in the first place. The ease of access and reduced prices might seem like a boon for budding magicians, but it is a bane for the creators and stores that rely on fair sales to sustain their businesses.

One could argue that stores might need to follow this horrible trend but I hope they don't. Equally, the creators of magic could bypass the magic distributions and send their items directly to the online reviews where unfortunately this seems to be the new norm.

-Always buy directly from the builder or writer.

The reason for exposing this concept, and it is just a concept, as I have no proof that it's currently going on, is to help stop online businesses from taking money away from the makers of magic and the stores that sell it. By understanding this cycle, we can take steps to support our community before it happens.

As magicians, we must be mindful of the impact our actions have on the broader magic community. Supporting local magic shops, respecting intellectual property, and promoting ethical practices are essential steps in preserving the art of magic for future generations.