Women In Boxes
by Blaire Baron Larsen
June, 2008
With the recent, yet understandable inundation of exposés on political oppression, corporate corruption, apocalyptic warnings and global catastrophe, we wanted to make a film that gave our spirits a lift and our nerves a rest. The Life of the Magic Assistant was a concept that we found instantly intriguing. Just when we thought everything had been said about everything, here was an untapped idea and the well was full. We embarked on our filmic quest in typical Storyteller 101 fashion, hunting for the conflict, the hook that would keep our audience engaged, hopefully glued to their seats. (read more...  )

What we discovered in this small international community was that - due to the covert nature of Magic, there was a unique and very close camaraderie among women, almost cult-like. We found that the conflict and tension in our film was in the inherent danger of the work, their hand-to-mouth existence as live performers in a digital-centric age, and their interpersonal conflicts with and treatment by...the magician/husband they serve. In their bittersweet reflections on their lives, we discovered several anti-clichés in place within this subculture; the most refreshing anti-cliché being, the assistant is very much the one in control, in fact, the true Magician behind the Illusionist. He could not do it without her. If we have accomplished our mission, then the film has brought beauty, brevity, humanity and restored faith to our viewers that there is still Magic in the world.

Women in Boxes is not only rare in that its subject matter was untapped until now, but also in its treasure trove of archival footage.  Graciously given access to the personal video libraries of the Larsen, Daniel, Willard, Shimada, Wilson, Jones, Reveen, Dante and Blackstone families, the producers were able to visually bring their stories to life.  

Women in Boxes is having a World Premiere at the Cinevegas Film Festival on June 19th and an encore performance on June 21st. The Gala Red Carpet Event is at the Brenden Theaters in the Palms Casino and will be a hoot for the cast, including Deanna Shimada, Irene Larsen, Luna Shimada, Moi Yo Miller (*who sends her heartfelt congratulations from Sydney), Pam Thompson, Coral Reveen. Fracnes Willard, Jan Jones, Stacy Jones, Gay Blackstone, Tammy Calvert, Nani Wilson, Dazzle, Abi McBride, Burton's Babes, Kristen Lambert (then 14 and a magician) and the men of magic: Teller, Criss Angel, Jeff McBride, Johnny Thompson, Peter, Reveen and Les Arnold and Lance Burton. The best of magic will be in attendance and the premiere is also open to the public.

From there, Women in Boxes hopes to have a Los Angeles screening for its Hollywood fans! What a perfect way to celebrate the undercredited, controversial magic assistant! Who is really doing that magic?! BEHIND EVERY GREAT MAGICIAN...THERE IS A WOMAN...IN A BOX...
Contact Women in Boxes for more information: www.womeninboxes.com

Hear a great interview by clicking the play button (blue arrow) below