Season 1

1997-12-07

“Centuries of Deception” traces the roots of magic to the Egyptian empire of 249 B.C.

1997-12-09

“Mystery in America” shows magic riding the crest of vaudeville. It also picks up with Harry Houdini, whom Jay pronounces “the world’s first superstar.” Besides all of the wondrous, death-defying stunt footage of the magic great, Houdini is singled out for his crusade against spiritualism and embracing of film.