This isn't a review, rather a discussion about the multiplying bottles, in my opinion, one of the best effects in magic. There is so much in common with the multiplying bottles and the cups and balls: They both use "harmless" props (Harmless meaning not necessarily looked at as a prop, not as much as a stage illusion for example.) They both have a lot of room for presentation, comedy, etc. They both build up to the climax, yet incorporate an actual effect throughout (Cups and balls= the balls traveling/penetrating, etc. Multiplying Bottles= the bottle and the glass switching places.) Both of them are very powerful, and both make perfect closers.

This being said, I think that we should have a discussion about the multiplying bottles here because it closely correlates with the cups and balls. I, too, think that the multiplying bottles is almost dying out in terms of popularity; the "new wave" of magicians are forgetting the power of this effect. Also, like cups, there are high quality sets of multiplying bottles, and cheap junk (ironically the cheap junk comes from the same company for both the bottles and cups.)

I actually have a few questions about the multiplying bottles though, which was my primary inspiration to start this thread: Does anybody know where an authentic set of Ken Brooke Multiplying Bottles can be purchased, or from whom? Can anybody suggest sets that have worked well for them? I've heard good reviews about the Harrie's. How do they compare to Ken Brooke's? Have others released material on the multiplying bottles besides the classic Ken Brooke sequence? Lastly for now, does anybody know where to get that hilarious leg table that Denny Haney uses in his routine? Thanks. I'm sorry if these questions seem too "beginner oriented," but technically they are beginner oriented.



                     Thanks a lot,
                         Mike


P.S. I though of another question for someone who knows: How is the quality of the set of bottles that Denny Haney sells at his site? There is a 12 and a 9 bottle set. He claims that they look just like the Ken Brooke originals, but, like any copy (Paul Faux, for example) never seem to compare. Thoughts? Thanks a lot guys.

Mike,

I have to say that I am one of those magicians (read: hobbyist) that always has passed on this effect. I have two reasons for this:

1- I want to carry my props around, like the cups or sponges, hotrods and even an jumping arrow.
2- For some reason the bottles remember me of Tommy Cooper (great performer and comedian) and an image of him collapsing on stage. I don't know why this image pops up but it always kept me from doing this effect.

I feel in a way that the bottles had their time, the effect is widely spread. Unlike the cups, people come up with new moves and routines. Best example I can name is the new chop cup routine by Kent. The vanish of a single ball has me baffled.

So, to make a long story short. I really can't help you with your questions since I don't have the effect nor will I ever do.

Etienne

Well, the routine is limited to what performers use it due to a lot of factors, mainly based off of what type of performing that they do. There are a lot of scenarios where this would kill, but, like you said, there are a lot of limits to where and when you perform this. I still am a fan of the effect and would like to own one of those "if I need it, I have it" kind of things. Thanks Etienne.


       
         Mike

Mike,

Unless you really have your heart set on the Multiplying Bottles, I suggest that you pass on them and spend your money on the Cups. You will have and use them the rest of your life. And as a bonus… if you get tired of them or tight for money, you know one of us would end up buying them way before a set of Multiplying Bottles.

Take care,
Bruce

Thanks Bruce for the advice. Why does magic have to involve so many tough decisions? 


 
              Mike

Mike… decisions are part of the process. At least you are not compulsive and purchasing things wily nily.

When you pull the trigger on a set of Cups, I am sure that you will get the right ones.

Take care,
Bruce

Bruce, I've taken another turn in this long process. Now I'm considering a smooth set of Sherwoods in copper with white/silver balls, and a chop cup from RNT2. What do you think?

Mike… you certainly pick out some neat Cups. I have never seen a set Sherwoods in person, but everything that I read about them is most positive.

They are on my long list; I want a set of the Sherwood engraved Cups (any finish)... someday.

I am sure that you would like them,
Bruce

Bruce, I saw a picture of the P2's up on the Museum, and now they're calling me again. Help!



    Mike

Those pop up on ebay surprisingly regularly...