Criss Angel Boards Mandrake

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Criss Angel Boards Mandrake

June 4, 2007

Cinema Blend talked to "MindFreak" illusionist/magician Criss Angel who says he will take part in the live-action adaptation of the "Mandrake the Magician." Based on the Hearts comic, the action-adventure will be directed by Chuck Russell (The Scorpion King, Eraser, The Mask).

"I've just signed on to do a movie which I'll be shooting at the end of this year called 'Mandrake,'" Angel said. "Which is based on the comic book strip. It's gonna kind of be like a kind of cool realm of 'The Crow' but different of Mandrake the magician coming to life. I'm designing and creating the visual effects for that, as well as going to be acting in it. So that's a very exciting prospect that I'm looking forward to do."

Comparing how magic and illusions have been portrayed in past movies, he added, "I know that the 'Mandrake' project really gets it. Being involved from the beginning in the creation of the script, and of the characters and effects, really gives me an opportunity to work with the director to make sure that it's really seamless with how they coexist and work hand in hand, and how one supports the other and it's not contrived and it's not cheesy. So, I'm really excited about 'Mandrake' and I'm hoping that they'll get it right better than anyone's gotten it yet."

"Mandrake the Magician" was created by Lee Falk in 1934. The dapper, mustached magician remains one of the most famous characters in the comic strip medium, his adventures appearing in newspapers worldwide. Mandrake uses his legendary powers of hypnotism and illusion to combat crime.

Today (Monday), Angel performs his latest stunt in New York City, titled "Cement Block." He'll be suspended 40 feed above Times Square in a glass box four-feet high that will slowly fill with concrete. After 24 hours, the cube will plummet to the ground whether he gets out or not. You can watch a live feed here!

The new season of "Criss Angel MindFreak" premieres Tuesday on A&E.

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