Deceptive Practice

The Mysteries And Mentors Of Ricky Jay

Ricky Jay is a world-renowned magician, author, historian and actor who regularly provokes astonishment from even the most jaded audiences. DECEPTIVE PRACTICE traces Jay's achievements and influences, from his apprenticeship at age 4 with his grandfather, to such now-forgotten legends as Al Flosso, Slydini, Cardini and his primary mentors, Dai Vernon and Charlie Miller.

Featuring rare footage from his 1970s TV appearances and told in Jay's inimitable voice, this is a remarkable journey inside the secretive world of magic and the small circle of eccentrics who are its perpetual devotees.

Official Selection at the San Francisco International Film Festival and the New York Film Festival.

"This documentary provides an elegant, enthralling peek behind the curtain and into the you-won't-trust-your-eyes world of this celebrated contemporary conjurer."- Kenneth Turan, The Los Angeles Times