The Masked Magician Starts A New Page
January 01, 2008
Fans of comic
books and magic can now get a double dose of entertainment with
the release of the Masked Magician, a graphic novel based
on the character of the hugely successful series of TV specials
created by Nash Entertainment called “Breaking the Magician’s
Code.” When these shows aired in the late ’90s, they created a lot
of controversy because the host (a.k.a., the Masked Magician)
revealed the secrets of longstanding magic tricks. This well-known
magician, who wore a mask to avoid recrimination from fellow
magicians, was Val Valentino.
Valentino’s new graphic novel is the first to be based on a
living character. It begins 10,000 years ago, as a statue with
great power falls to earth and a special society is created to
protect mankind from those who might try to wield it. The members
of this society were magicians. They split the statue to diminish
its power and scattered the pieces across the Earth. Then novel’s
action jumps to present day, when a larger-than-life magician is
using his illusions to find and steal the pieces. Only two
protagonists stand in the way of his unleashing the terrible
forces of the statue onto the world.
“After a few ideas and early drafts, Bruce Nash and I had a
conversation that changed the entire premise of the story. We
ended up making the Masked Magician more magical and metaphysical
in nature,” Valentino told What’s On, when asked if he had
an active role in developing the compelling storyline. “I was
really happy with the change of the concept and am very pleased
with the plot, as the possibilities for twists and turns and
further sequels are endless, with many more surprises to come.”
The Masked Magician was written by Mike Maddox and
meticulously illustrated by Pradeep Ingale. It offers exciting
insight into the world of magic—especially its dual forces of good
and evil.
“I believe the overriding message of the novel is that anything
is possible,” said Valentino, who added that he is very honored
that the Masked Magician character has been “immortalized” in
comic form.
Having performed for nearly 15 years in various Las Vegas
shows, Valentino is currently busy on the road producing
international “Live” tours and programming reality TV shows. He’ll
soon be releasing a four-disc DVD set that teaches the art of
magic to aspiring magicians.
“The year 2008 will also start with an exceptionally large
project, which is scheduled to take place in March or April,”
Valentino added. “I will attempt to be buried alive!”
The Masked Magician graphic novel costs $4.99. It’s
available online at
www.virgincomicsstore.com and at comic book stores
everywhere.
By Renee LiButti
What's On Magazine
