1 review for Bunko Blocks Deluxe (with Zen and Again) by Loyd’s, Michael Baker
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Andy Martin –
When I first saw Michael Baker’s Zen and Again on his website I was very excited because I thought he had taken Loyd’s Bunko Blocks and added some beautiful boxes with an Oriental theme to create the perfect set for a Bunko Blocks Deluxe effect. Unfortunately, I was a little disappointed because Michael does not use the mechanical method with Zen and Again that makes the Bunko Blocks so effective. In fact, after contacting Michael he had not even heard of Bunko Blocks so was unaware when he created Zen and Again of the effect or the method created by Loyd c. 1945. Don’t get me wrong Michael’s version does use gimmicked blocks which do work great, but I’m not convinced it is quite close to the real miracle that can be achieved with the Bunko Blocks.
What I did here is to combine both effects: Loyd’s Bunko Blocks and Michael’s Zen and Again boxes, and now you really do have a wonderful routine and a complete fooler too – a true Bunko Blocks Deluxe 🙂
Michael’s Zen and Again also comes with updated patter, or you can use a variant (updated for modern PC sensibilities) of the original Loyd handing and patter and you have a really perfect miracle that looks the part too!
I do include Michael’s blocks which you can see in the photos. The Bunko Blocks are larger and the red ones have Chinese characters on them and have these features:
The final feature is the key difference.
Michael’s blocks are a littler easier to perform but have more angle issues and you cannot show all sides of the blocks. When I created both videos I did the Bunko Blocks first then Michael’s and so that video benefited a lot from the practice on the Bunko Blocks, but there is no doubt Michael’s are a easier at first. However, I was surprised how easy it was to flash something at the wrong time. Michael’s version has these features:
Michael’s blocks are also colored on each side whereas the Bunko Blocks have black tops and bottoms – I never ever considered this an issue, until Michael mentioned it. Personally I see no issues with the black tops and bottoms, but Michael does so for some that might also be considered a plus. In the end you have to decide which you prefer.
The effect is basically the same in either case, and after performing both Speed Demos I’m not sure which one I prefer myself now. Probably still the Bunko, but it is close.