Tricked

Tricked is a reality television series that originally aired on BYUtv in 2013. This captivating, family-friendly show combines elements of both mystery and enchantment, offering its audience a delightful blend of entertainment and wonder. The show's focus is to portray the captivating world of magic, illusion, and deception in an engaging and wholesome way. It stands out for its inventive approach to filming, and for its innovative storytelling that involves ordinary people as unsuspecting participants.

The series features the charismatic magician Eric Leclerc, who is a two-time Canadian Magic Champion and a participant of Fool Us by Penn & Teller. Eric is well-known for his unique tricks, witty humor, and engaging personality. With an unassuming yet compelling stage presence, Leclerc astounds, confounds, and amuses with his quirky style of magic. His performances regularly include a mix of classic magic tricks and modern illusions, often executed right in front of the unsuspecting participants and the television audience, creating an effective 'up-close' and 'personal' experience.

Tricked cleverly breaks the traditional mold of magic shows. Instead of the magician performing on stage in front of a large audience, the magic is brought into the everyday lives of ordinary people. Viewers get to see individuals, families, coworkers, and even groups of friends face sudden, baffling reality-defying situations that are actually meticulously crafted magic tricks.

Leclerc pulls these illusions off in numerous unexpected places – restaurants, shopping centers, city streets, private homes, and more, which makes the magic appear even more real and fascinating. He expertly utilizes everyday objects, well-timed distractions and his own sleight of hand to craft the illusion, leaving the unsuspecting individuals who participate completely astonished and often delightfully perplexed.

Each episode of Tricked is structured around a variety of tricks, gags, and conundrums, ranging from the simple to the increasingly complex. Some of the tricks are presented as quick street performances designed to make participation easy and spontaneous, adding an aspect of unpredictability. Other tricks involve more complex set-ups and careful planning, sometimes involving the collaboration of friends, family members or colleagues of those being 'tricked', to bring about bigger surprises.

Aside from the focus on the magic and illusion aspect, Tricked also provides valuable insights into human psychology and reactions. Since the magic is presented in the context of everyday life situations, it invites viewers to observe magnified, amusing, and thought-provoking reactions from the people being tricked. This shines a light on the fascinating ways in which people react when they encounter the impossible.

Tricked is also notable for its production quality. The show uses professional, high-tax cinematography, editing, and sound. Each segment is precisely filmed and edited to not only sell the illusion to the in-person audience but also to the viewers at home, fully capturing every surprised facial expression and bewildered double-take.

Throughout Tricked, Eric Leclerc's personality shines. His humor and lighthearted banter blend seamlessly with his magic, giving the series its unique charm. The professional magician is a master of involving people in his tricks, using his quick wit and inviting persona to draw people into the narrative of each trick.

Despite having a reality show format, Tricked maintains a level of wholesomeness and familial charm consistent with BYUtv's other programming. The show is designed to be enjoyed together as a family and leaves viewers, both young and old, marveling at the magic and intrigued by the illusions.

Whether you're a fan of magic or enjoy entertaining and engaging television, Tricked offers plenty of surprises, laughs, and intrigue. It is a show that reminds us all to embrace moments of disbelief and the sheer wonder of the inexplicable. Brimming with charm, wit, and warm-hearted fun, Tricked is an enjoyable watch for viewers of all ages. Experience the joy of disbelief in every unexpected twist and turn tugged by Eric Leclerc in this one-of-a-kind magical journey.