And the envelope please... Throughout the day today, our panel reviewed each submission and all chimed in with their thoughts. Judging this contest wasn't easy. We had more than a handful of GREAT submissions that demonstrated high technical ability, production value, and obvious acquired skill. They were very well done. I could not judge these submissions alone, so I was assisted by Bill Kalush and Jason England - two of the world's foremost experts on Erdnase and two (or, four) of the best hands in magic. Period.
So now for the results! Keep in mind that we tried to keep this contest reserved to best overall winner. This means that we tried our best to set aside production value and focus on the content - the moves - the skills. Our first place winner was unanimous simply for one reason: he chose to demonstrate one of the hardest moves in the book, and he did a damn good job of it. Congratulations to our first place winner and the trophy holder tonight - Tom Denton (TeeDee) for his submission
here.
Our second place prize and runner up was a difficult choice as well. We had much debate over who would take home this honorable mention, and at the last minute, we settled on one of you that demonstrated some great moves and polished, smooth handling: Nicholas S. His video can be found
here.
And in closing, a note from the stimulus to this contest, Mr. Bill Kalush: "I'm very impressed with all the entries and see a lot of talent out there. I give Nicholas an honorable mention; his speed and style of movement reminds me of Steve Forte. Almost all of them were very strong though and I'm also quite impressed by how much effort many put in to make their videos cool looking."
Congrats to everyone that participated in this - you all did a damn fine job and should be very proud of the result. Amazing work.