Dealt

Dealt is a captivating 2017 documentary revolving around the extraordinary life of Richard Turner, a renowned magician who astounds audiences with his remarkable card manipulation skills. Noteworthy for his seemingly impossible techniques, Turner's feats take on an even more astonishing quality when it is revealed that he is completely blind. Directed by Luke Korem, the film delves into Turner's struggle, triumph, and pursuit of perfection in his chosen craft, providing an intriguing blend of magic, biography, and personal resilience.

The narrative begins with an initial introduction to Turner, who is famous within the magic community as a "card mechanic," someone with astonishing dexterity and mastery over cards. However, what the documentary then unflinchingly explores is the fact that this maestro has accomplished all of his remarkable feats without sight, having lost his vision due to a degenerative eye condition as a child. Far from being a tale of tragedy, however, Dealt examines how Turner's blindness became an essential part of his extraordinary journey, and how he astounded the world with his stunningly precise card tricks despite all odds.

The arresting visual experiences meld flawlessly with remarkable storytelling and engaging characters. Johnny Thompson, a celebrated magician and "guru" of magic, plays a significant role in the film, bolstering its narrative impact with his insightful perspective on Turner's craft. In addition, Max Maven, another respected figure within the magic domain, also adds his expert commentary into the mix which aids in delving deeper into Turner's unique journey. The interactions between Turner and these prominent figures provide absorbing snapshots of camaraderie and shared passion for the art of magic.

As an exploration of Turner's life, Dealt excavates personal history and introduces viewers to significant figures from his past and present. One such character is Turner's wife, Kim, who adds a tender, delicate layer to the narrative with her experiential account of life with Richard. The film also provides glimpses of Turner's relationship with his son, offering a poignant lens through which to understand the magician's life beyond his craft.

The documentary doesn't simply rest on the laurels of Turner's incredible card skills and his triumph over adversity. Instead, it delves deeper, exploring the magician's character, examining his struggle with accepting his disability, his obsessive pursuit of perfection, and the effect of his uncompromising dedication on his family life. It's this multi-faceted exploration that propels Dealt beyond a standard biographical documentary, transforming it into a compelling human interest story about the power of perseverance and the magic of self-belief.

Despite its focus on magic and card manipulation, the film is not exclusively a treat for magic enthusiasts. Dealt is a reflection on life and the human spirit, a film that appeals to a wide audience with its universal themes. It is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the relentless pursuit of passion, brimming with inspiring lessons about overcoming adversity, embracing challenges, and persevering in the face of seemingly insurmountable obstacles.

Further enhancing the allure of the film, the cinematography imbues this unforgettable biographical account with added visual dynamism. Drawing the audiences into Turner's world, scenes have been meticulously crafted to create a smoothing viewing journey that ties in well with the film's overall thematic trajectory.

Meticulously directed by Luke Korem, Dealt moves with a rhythm that captivates, unveiling the many layers of Turner's life and art as a card magician. From the examination of Turner's blindness to his refusal to be categorized as disabled, from his relentless pursuit of perfection in his craft to the exploration of his relationship with his family, Dealt is a mesmerizing presentation of a gifted individual's journey.

In conclusion, Dealt offers a deep and moving exploration of Richard Turner's life, presenting a compelling portrait of an extraordinary individual that goes far beyond the dazzle of magic tricks. It is a journey through resilience and determination, as well as an exploration of the profound challenge of coming to terms with one's limitations. It's a poignant observation of the art of magic and a celebration of the indomitable spirit of human perseverance. Above all, Dealt is a testament to the enduring message that life itself is the greatest magic show of all.