However, the main drawback to The Science of Magic is that it feels like (and just may be) a made for television special – one of those that you watch if you can't find anything else. Some of it is really interesting and entertaining, but mostly it teases you with magic that it doesn't explain – the opposite of what the case promises ("…reveals trade secrets you thought you'd never learn…"), which is odd, since "Magic's Biggest Secrets Revealed" already demonstrated how quite a few of the big magic tricks were accomplished. The magicians, although quite good, aren't quite "David Copperfield" in terms of being well known. Harry Anderson, on the other hand, is quite entertaining, and keeps Science of Magic flowing quite well, even demonstrating a few tricks of his own.

Picture:
The Science of Magic is presented in 1.33:1 full screen. There are some instances of shimmer and pixelation, but neither lasts long or is too distracting.

Sound:
For Science of Magic, the viewer is given three options: Dolby Digital 5.1, Dolby Surround, and DTS Digital Surround. I can't speak for the DTS audio, but the DD 5.1 was weak. The only time the surround was utilized was during the opening credits for UNAPIX (the distributors), and during the chapter cards when they introduced the principles of magic. But for this feature, surround isn't really necessary, and not having it doesn't detract from the experience.

Extras:
For extras, you get the option of jumping to one of seven chapters, all of which are on one track.

Summary:
If you're interested in magic, but not necessarily how the tricks are accomplished, this is a definite rental item. It provides an interesting look at how the tricks are set up, and the principles magicians use in pulling them off. Fans of Harry Anderson may also want to rent, as he's the high point of the feature. However, due to the short running time and fact that viewers will more than likely only watch this once, I'd discourage a purchase.