The only magic special where somebody might die, and it's not the trick.
Penn reads "Casey at the Bat" while Teller escapes from a straight jacket; Penn does a not-wimpy card trick; Teller gives the illusion of reality with a cigarette; Penn eats fire; and the guys show you a trick you can do at home, if you don't mind taping over Masterpiece Theatre.
Acting
Penn's booming carnival barker charisma.
Writing
Meta-commentary that exposes and celebrates the con.
Practical Effects
Teller's silent physical comedy is genuinely masterful.
Director
Cordelia Stone
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
This 1985 special predates their iconic 'Bullshit!' series by nearly two decades, already showcasing their signature skeptical, debunking approach to entertainment.
The 'trick you can do at home' bit was genuinely revolutionary—most magicians guard secrets obsessively, while Penn & Teller treat exposure as its own performance art.
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