PART ONE!!! | Derren Brown's Desert Island Tricks

We've got an extraordinary episode featuring the wonderful Derren Brown, who takes us through his incredible career, from the early days of close up card magic to his rise as a world-renowned mentalist and hypnotist. Listen as Derren shares his ultimate list of effects from his career including effects from his stage, television, book's and DVD's. He also recounts touching moments, like an audience member's request to contact her deceased grandmother, and reflects on the ethical dilemmas his craft often presents.
Join us for an imaginative exploration into Derren's thought process as he selects timeless tricks over modern, tech-heavy illusions. Learn why classics like "Card at Any Number" holds a special place in his repertoire and how his interest in card magic has been rekindled. He reveals the artistry behind his magic, emphasising the importance of engaging the audience from the very beginning and creating an emotional connection through seemingly bizarre situations that are sure to leave a lasting impression.
Discover the intricacies of live performances as Derren discusses the unique challenges of mentalism and hypnosis. Hear stories from his tours, where he's had to be both present and compassionate, particularly when dealing with individuals experiencing panic attacks or PTSD. From transforming a discarded card trick into a compelling mediumship act to the ingenious mechanics of "Watch to Sock," Derren provides a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at the world of magic. This episode is a must-listen for anyone intrigued by the delicate balance between creating impactful entertainment and being mindful of audience sensitivities.
Find out more about the team behind this podcast at www.alakazam.co.uk

[@bboyudon]

FINALLY. An interviewer who was willing to interview Derren as a MAGICIAN, and not immediately try to turn into a Pulitzer prize winning journalist - "who's the real Derren Brown?" etc. Excellent work

[@magicmaizie2015]

One of derrens greatest tricks was convincing people that he's not a magician.

[@bboyudon]

Grateful for Derren sharing that candid story about the laughter game in the wings. Hilarious. Just makes him more lovable and endearing.

[@MagicPeaceLove]

I saw Showman and was immediately sorry I hadn't booked tickets to see it again the next night. Absolute masterpiece, best and most complex thing Derren's ever done (and I've seen just about everything).

[@alishajanetx]

I went to showman and got whammied by the card trick. I remember thinking i was going to have a panic attack but i knew i could trust derren and that stopped me from freaking out, hes the only person i will watch who does things like this. I still think back to it a lot as it was truly amazing 👏

[@andrewgerardphotography]

It's really enjoyable to hear Darren chat, and blow his nose.

[@eddiehewitt5529]

Awesome stuff - I could listen to Derren speak all day! I've seen all his live shows, TV programmes, and read all his books - big fan of his brand of intelligent magic/mentalism. But, a huge nod to you Jamie for knowing when to keep quiet and letting him talk - that's what made for such an insightful interview. Great work my friend 👍

[@mattyblackpaint]

Went to a Derren Brown show, Showman, loved it, brilliant, flawless, but my friend refused to come back at half time because she thought there was something EVIL going on. Still have friends who swear the card trick that forms the spine of the show was really actually magic and are scared. Seeing as I'm here, and you guys seem cool, I think he palmed it off. Best thing I've ever seen. Loved it.

[@FarisSkt]

this interview is gold! hearing derren talk about the card to box effect was wonderful. good job with the interview jamie!

[@chubby_artist]

Fantastic interview! Hearing a few techniques, names and kinds of routines, for example Q&A, it gives me a direction to look in to so I can understand some tricks and illusions

[@ScottishDave83]

Fantastic interview. ❤❤❤

[@CNew912]

1st one of tbese I've seen. I can't wait for Pt 2!

[@Erdnase23]

Lovely stuff.

[@thegrumpybusinessman3400]

Great interview

[@colinrumford2265]

Pretty sure Oracle was in An Evening of Wonder. Loved in. And I think it finished with you collapsing. 😂

[@JudahMantell]

I would love to know the name of the Jay Sankey effect he mentions, if anyone knows!

[@Artemisss1]

Really interesting interview! Nice to hear him talk about his tricks and performances. I am also really confused, I hope someone can help me out with this. The thing Derren said about his suggestible fysiotherapist: he said he had seen the man walk across and his wife hadn't, assuming the trick hadn't worked on him, but had on his wife. Then Derren says he's so suggestible he had filled in the time he had forgotten. But the person on stage really did walk across in the video, so he could have seen that. There was nothing to fill in, right? I don't understand why the fysio guy wasn't right in assuming it hadn't worked for him.... What am I missing xD

[@ryanstandlee7305]

I mean the trick is that it didn't really happen, he doesn't hypnotise anybody, it's a trick!

[@ryanstandlee7305]

So the physio was so suggestible that he'd convinced himself he HAD seen something that never actually really happened.

[@judeeds2]

He really is a borderline national treasure 🤣...

[@ToniYammine]

Take a deck of cards. Shuffle it. Cut it and complete the cut, but do not look.The queen of hearts will be 13 from the top. You are welcome!

[@magicelliotth]

Oh my goodness!! I was so doubtful at first but it worked!!

[@paulhamj6175]

It works every single time! Oh my goodness! I cannot believe it! If I wasn't seeing it with my own eyes I really would not believe this. Just like real magic.

[@phill6859]

@@ToniYammine this worked and I had previously removed the queen of hearts.

[@ChubbyChecker182]

Didn't work for me. I have tried it twice.

[@ToniYammine]

is it a full deck?

[@mlippo65]

You didn't (fortunately) apologise for "trousers & pants" ...

[@MrAubz1]

Told sister her "widgee" board was nonsense. She said I know but it's all I have.

[@jamiemichael5790]

jamie from the coney

[@tonedeftonytv1047]

So sad,but a good job he's retired, he's looking really, really sick. Hope he's not. Amazing mentalist! Saw him live for the 'Dad homage', which was very disappointing :(

[@mlippo65]

Why apologise for "dice" as a single "dice"???? You're British, just as I am!!!

[@thomasboguszewski7288]

“We went to a puzzle room and everyone on my team was gay” in other words he went to a puzzle room 😂🏳️‍🌈

[@aalexjohna]

He couldn't trick his hair not to fall out.

[@ChubbyChecker182]

He misread the "Making the Hare Disappear" instructions