Hypnosis and the Movies!

I LOVE to watch old movies! In fact, my act is largely inspired by the movies of the 1930's, 40's and 50's, with all their quirky sense of mystery and drama. It makes for great stories and comedy!

I had the chance to watch Chandu the Magician (1932). This movie is such a treat! Now granted it gets yogis and India culture completely wrong, and has all the hallmarks and prejudices of a very different time, so one must remember context. At the same time, the presentation of hypnosis is downright fun!

The premise in the movie is that Chandu's ability to manipulate reality (magic) and perception (hypnosis) has to do with his eyes. If people only look in his eyes, they fall under his hypnotic spell! 

Of course, this isn't quite how hypnosis works in real life. It's a little more involved than that. However, it provides for some awesome entertainment during my Hypnosis Show, when some of the scenes in this classic movie come to life on-stage!

If you get the chance, take a look at Chandu the Magician, and see what you think!

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