Wizard Wars

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Wizard Wars
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A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this TV show.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that Wizard Wars features magicians competing for cash by performing sequences of magic tricks. Some of the acts rely on mildly violent material (references to stabbings and so on) and occasional, subtle innuendo that likely will go over the heads of younger viewers. Props include real and fake weapons, cigars, and even noted food items such as Spam and Altoids. Young magic fans might be drawn to this show, but older kids will be able to appreciate the magic lessons taught here a bit better.
Community Reviews
Wizard Wars ... a contest that generates superb Magic
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What's the Story?
WIZARD WARS is a competition series that pits illusionists against each other to see who can give the most magical performance using everyday objects. Hosted by Ellen Fox, the series features a panel of resident magicians, aka "wizards," made up of two-time World Championship of Magic winner Gregory Wilson, Las Vegas magician Shimshi, YouTube celeb Justin Flom, and Angela Funovits, an internationally renowned mentalist. They watch as two teams of guest magicians try to impress judges Penn and Teller, magician and astronomer Christen Gerhar, and World Champion of Magic Jason Latimer by performing tricks using the same three ordinary props. The winning team then moves on to a wizard war, where they face off against two wizards for $10,000. In between challenges, the judges teach audiences some of the principles of magic.
Is It Any Good?
From amazing card illusions to mind tricks, the show offers viewers the chance to see how magicians use universal tricks of the trade to showcase their individual talents regardless of the props they use. Meanwhile, it also shows some of the skills they must have when working with other illusionists to create acts that both impress and entertain.
Most of the tricks featured here will appeal to magic fans of all ages. However, there are a few that appear painful or seem potentially dangerous. Some of the acts rely on some subtle sexual references as a way to be funny. But for those old enough to handle it, there's a lot to enjoy here.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about magic. What are some of the principles of magic? Can anyone learn how to do magic tricks by learning those principles? Where do people go to learn how to conduct tricks and illusions? Can aspiring magicians really learn by watching TV shows such as this one?
TV Details
- Premiere date: August 19, 2014
- Cast: Penn Jillette, Miles Teller, Ellen Fox
- Network: Syfy
- Genre: Reality TV
- Topics: Magic and Fantasy
- TV rating: TV-14
- Last updated: March 31, 2022
Our Editors Recommend
For kids who love magic
Themes & Topics
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