I SAW HOUDINI: BACK FROM THE DEAD

Fox Nation/Red Rock Films' Houdini: Back From the Dead is an absorbing, A.I.-accentuated, three-part documentary, where an interviewer (voiced by Brian Gurnett) grants passage into Erich Weiss's extraordinary life. 

Helmed by Red Rock's president/showrunner, Brian Armstrong, the A.I. presentation recreates Houdini's voice (based on antiquated recordings), along with imagery culled from archival photos, most of which are enlivened by vivid color. 

Though the visuals are striking, it's the content that enchants, as the series' chapters ("Master of Illusion," "Master of Fear" and "Master of Death") chronicle the legendary escape artist/illusionist in a way that exceeds all previous, biographical attempts (and indeed, there have been some good ones).

As a means to weave a thorough tapestry, the series returns viewers to Houdini's Budapest birthplace and then tracks his life in America, sharing insights on his parents, Mayer Samuel and Cecillia, his brother, Theodore/Dash (aka Hardeen), and the love of his life, Bess Rahner. 

Along the way, one gains an appreciation for Houdini's work ethic (his push to succeed), with significant benchmarks and influencing personalities presented. These include encounters with Martin Beck and C. Dundas Slater, from whom Houdini's handcuff skills gained prominence; his astonishing, Scotland Yard evasion; his beguiling, stage gimmicks (the Chinese Water Torture Cell and the Milk Can Escape); his daring, aviation stints; his friendships with authors Walter B. Gibson and Arthur Conan Doyle; and his sweeping, seance-debunking campaign. 

Thanks to the documentary's careful execution, much of the content proves touching, as when Houdini vows to fill his mother's apron with gold (to fulfill his father's dying wish), as well as his measures to comfort Bess when they lose their beloved dog, Charlie, or when it's confirmed that Bess cannot conceive. 

Despite its controversial format, Houdini: Back From the Dead succeeds through its reenactments. That the results manage a welcoming warmth also lends justification to the approach.  

I can't help but praise Houdini: Back From the Dead. For anyone who has come to admire the man (whether per photos, movies and/or books), this is a hands-down must-see. Don't let it slip by. Take a peek--and be amazed!