Genii Magazine - December 2025

In this issue:

Editorial: The Genii Speak
Jim Steinmeyer interviews Genii columnists Dr. Matt Pritchard and Sara Crasson in this month’s video, offering a closer look at how they shape their contributions to the magazine.

Mailbox
Andrew Pinard shares follow-up thoughts and handling notes on Blake Vogt and Hok’s Floating Cube from the September issue. Jim Steinmeyer contributes a photo of his Bud West Shenanigan Die Box in response to Jeff Landes’ comments on The Madness of the Die Box from August.

Features

Now You See It… Behind the Scenes • By Toby Halbrooks
Go inside the first-ever magic department created for Lionsgate’s Now You See Me franchise. Learn about the magic built for the third film and watch the trailer to see some of the effects in action.

A Day of Magic, for Jack • By Pete McCabe

The Conover Collection

Tim Conover: An Interview with Eric Mead • By Noah Levine
The co-author of Conover reflects on his friendship with Tim Conover and the ideas that shaped their work together.

My Friend, Tim • By Jamy Ian Swiss
A personal look at Tim Conover’s reputation among insiders and the unique qualities that defined his magic.

The Conover Effect • By Bob Kohler
Bob Kohler shares insights into Conover’s methods, thinking, and the extraordinary results he produced throughout his life.

The Eye

• Magicians Are Cool – Read what Cosmopolitan has to say about the modern image of magicians.
• Amaze in New York – Learn more about Jamie Allan’s technology-driven illusion show.
• Piff and Pop’s Magic Shoppe – Piff returns to the U.K., joined by Penn Jillette (as Pop) and Mr. Piffles.
• The Magic Circle Awards – Congratulations to Genii columnist Dr. Matt Pritchard on receiving the Chapender Award.
• Vanished – A new book for younger readers spotlighting seven extraordinary women magicians.
• Sleights & Spirits – Discover the Airstream speakeasy magic lounge travelling across the country.

In Practice

• Inventing Magic – Blake Vogt teams up with Nick Diffatte in Episode 10 to create a wild signed melon effect.
• Sockless Coins – Tim Conover and Eric Mead teach a beautiful routine from the new Conover books, accompanied by a rare video of Tim showing the fine details.

In Performance

• The Magic Castle – Shawn McMaster reports on the bustling world of bar magic at The Castle and highlights who’s performing now.
• Kellar’s Comedy and Magic Club – A closer look at this charming magic venue in Erie, Pennsylvania.

Marketplace

• Tenyo 2026 – Richard Kaufman previews the upcoming Tenyo releases for 2026.
• Reviews – A selection of marketplace reviews, including the $100 Challenge.

Workshop

The Nauseous Limit • By Dr. Matt Pritchard
Watch this remarkable “vanishing elephant” illusion and learn how it works.