Fans of comic books and magic can now get a double dose of entertainment with the release of the Masked Magician, a graphic novel based on the character of the hugely successful series of TV specials created by Nash Entertainment called “Breaking the Magician’s Code.” When these shows aired in the late ’90s, they created a lot of controversy because the host (a.k.a., the Masked Magician) revealed the secrets of longstanding magic tricks. This well-known magician, who wore a mask to avoid recrimination from fellow magicians, was Val Valentino.

Valentino’s new graphic novel is the first to be based on a living character. It begins 10,000 years ago, as a statue with great power falls to earth and a special society is created to protect mankind from those who might try to wield it. The members of this society were magicians. They split the statue to diminish its power and scattered the pieces across the Earth. Then novel’s action jumps to present day, when a larger-than-life magician is using his illusions to find and steal the pieces. Only two protagonists stand in the way of his unleashing the terrible forces of the statue onto the world.

“After a few ideas and early drafts, Bruce Nash and I had a conversation that changed the entire premise of the story. We ended up making the Masked Magician more magical and metaphysical in nature,” Valentino told What’s On, when asked if he had an active role in developing the compelling storyline. “I was really happy with the change of the concept and am very pleased with the plot, as the possibilities for twists and turns and further sequels are endless, with many more surprises to come.”

The Masked Magician was written by Mike Maddox and meticulously illustrated by Pradeep Ingale. It offers exciting insight into the world of magic—especially its dual forces of good and evil.

“I believe the overriding message of the novel is that anything is possible,” said Valentino, who added that he is very honored that the Masked Magician character has been “immortalized” in comic form.

Having performed for nearly 15 years in various Las Vegas shows, Valentino is currently busy on the road producing international “Live” tours and programming reality TV shows. He will be releasing a four-disc DVD set that teaches the art of magic to aspiring magicians.

By Renee LiButti
What's On Magazine