By Erin Levi
Maybe you’ve seen his ads on the subway. Maybe you’ve seen his uncanny sports predictions on YouTube. Alan «Magic» Malakov, 25, a young and talented traveling magician, who lives in Forest Hills, has captivated audiences with his unique blend of mentalism and illusion. We sat down with him to discuss his journey, his passion for the art, and his aspirations for the future. And we even tested out a trick.
Erin Levi: How did you first become interested in magic?
Alan Malakov: It all started with Darren Brown’s show «Trick or Treat.» He’s a mentalist from the UK. His ability to manipulate minds and influence behavior was mind-blowing; he breaks into cars and change the radio station to a pre-recorded message to influence people. I was 14 when I first watched it, and it ignited a spark within me. I began practicing simple tricks and delving deeper into the world of illusion. And magic seemed like a fun way to express myself.
EL: Can you elaborate on your approach to mind control?
AM: Mind control, as we often perceive it in fiction, isn’t entirely accurate. However, the power of suggestion and persuasion is real. By understanding human psychology and employing strategic techniques, I can create the illusion of controlling someone’s thoughts or actions. It’s a delicate balance of skill, subtlety, and showmanship.
Simply said, if you convince someone you have control of their mind, they will act as if you have control of their mind.
EL: That makes sense. My father is a psychologist and certified hypnotherapist who said that entertainment hypnotists can’t make people do anything they don’t want to do.
So, you’ve gained significant attention online for your accurate predictions. How do you achieve such precision?
AM: I achieve my accurate predictions through the unknown. It is difficult for me to determine whether I get my results from hard work and skill or through talent. My self-awareness is not that high.
EL: How has your family and cultural background influenced your career?
AM: I come from a very creative family. (My grandfather is Ezra Malakov, the renowned singer.) Initially, they viewed magic as a hobby. But as my passion grew and I began to achieve success over these last two years, they became more supportive. Being Bukharian Jewish has shaped my worldview and influenced my approach to life. It’s a rich cultural heritage that I carry with pride.
EL: Do you have any favorite tricks?
AM: I have a collection of 15 good tricks and skills, but my favorite is manipulation. I enjoy the spontaneity of it. And being able to prove that I predicted every movement.
Let’s try it right now over the phone. Close your eyes. Now, pick up your left arm or right arm. Now do it again. With your right hand, point to somewhere on your upper body. With your left, point to somewhere on your lower body.
You picked up your right arm twice. And now are pointing to your head with your right arm, and to your knee with your left arm.
EL: Wow. I’m pointing to my thigh, just above my knee. But otherwise, yes, you got it all correct. How on earth did you do that?
AM: Through suggestive language, I subtly influenced you and you had no idea.
EL: I’m impressed. Tell me, Alan, what are your future aspirations?
AM: It’s obviously even more impressive in person. My ultimate goal is to create my own mind control show, similar to Darren Brown’s. I want to push the boundaries of illusion and explore the depths of human psychology. However, I also recognize the ethical implications of such a show and the potential for misuse. I’m committed to using my abilities responsibly and for the betterment of society.
EL: Any advice for aspiring magicians?
AM: My advice for aspiring magicians is to talk to me. You can live most of your life in the same usual way, or just have one conversation that can change your life. People have described speaking with me as the equivalent of taking psychedelic substances. One conversation with me will feel like a trip.
Follow Alan Malakov on instagram (@alan_malakov) and on YouTube (@AlanMalakov). To learn more and make a booking, visit his website at www.alanmagic.com.