David Blaine is famous for his epic stunts and magical illusions both on the stage as well as out on the streets. Now, traveling through the urban and natural jungles of Brazil to the unforgiving ice of the Arctic Circle, from the spiritual centers of India to the thriving cultural heart of South Africa, David seeks out real feats of magic at the intersection of physical and mental strength performed by extraordinary people. He shares his experiences with the public in his new series, David Blaine: Do Not Attempt.
What Is David Blaine: Do Not Attempt?
David Blaine: Do Not Attempt is a six-part television series which follows world- renowned magician and endurance artist David Blaine exploring the world through the lens of magic. Blaine takes viewers on a fascinating cultural exchange and a jaw-dropping journey through extraordinary cultures, where he meets with performers and masters — kindred spirits who inspire and share with him exceptional skills and secrets — in Brazil, Southeast Asia, India, the Arctic Circle, South Africa and Japan. “I’m discovering incredible people with unbelievable talents, pushing the limits of what’s possible. It’s been a privilege to learn from them,” said Blaine. “As a magician, I’m in awe of their abilities because, for me, the most magical moments aren’t tricks but human potential realized.” From sword swallowing to surviving venomous creature stings, and from feats of athleticism to kissing king cobras, David Blaine: Do Not Attempt uncovers the rituals, preparation and strength that take magic beyond mere illusion.
Do Not Attempt is produced by Imagine Documentaries for National Geographic. Executive producers are Brian Grazer, Ron Howard, David Blaine, Sara Bernstein, Justin Wilkes, Christopher St. John, Matthew Akers, Erica Sashin and Toby Oppenheimer. Abigail Harper is co-executive producer. The first two episodes of the series premiere on Sunday March 23rd on NatGeo TV and begins streaming the following day on Disney+ and Hulu. The remaining episodes are broadcast the following two Sundays. Let’s take a look at the each of the six episodes.
‘Brazil’
In Brazil, David Blaine seeks inspiration by immersing himself in his hosts’ vibrant energy, passion and spontaneity. The exceptional daredevils, artists, explorers and athletes he encounters unite to help him bring an audacious feat to life that’s lingered in his dreams for years.
‘Southeast Asia’
In Southeast Asia, David Blaine explores fascinating relationships with wildlife and how pain endurance can transform fear into magic. He meets practitioners who appear impenetrable by sharp objects and performers who can endure the stings of venomous creatures. David unpacks how people exploit fear in order to create wonder.
‘India’
Growing up, David Blaine was fascinated by images from India of extraordinary physical feats. This evolved into a life-long obsession with real acts that are so extreme they look like magic. Using secrets passed down over hundreds of years, people still perform these acts today. In India, David unearths these modern practitioners to explore how belief and performance intersect to make magic.
‘Arctic Circle’
In the stunning frozen landscape of the Arctic Circle, David Blaine explores humanity’s curiously extreme ability to endure freezing temperatures. He meets and learns from people who reach beyond their limits to transform barriers into new frontiers and embody a sense of resilience, perseverance and grit that is unique to the region.
‘South Africa’
In a nation once defined by apartheid, David embarks on an epic adventure in South Africa, uncovering the magic of its diverse cultures and wildlife that is reshaping perceptions and dismantling barriers in this dynamic country.
‘Japan’
From perfectly punctual bullet trains to meticulously assembled pieces of sushi, Japan is renowned for its craftsmanship, artistry and commitment to excellence in all endeavors. In Japan, David explores the concept of mastery by meeting with people who spend a lifetime refining a single skill.
Why You Should See David Blaine: Do Not Attempt
I have always enjoyed watching David Blaine’s magic and am always impressed at what he can do. Therefore, when I learned that he had an upcoming series for National Geographic, I wanted to check it out. As a result, I had the opportunity to preview all six episodes of the series and they are all fascinating as well as entertaining. Unlike many of his other performances where he is the star, in David Blaine: Do Not Attempt, Blaine lets others take the lead and demonstrate their incredible skills. I enjoyed how this master magician is learning from different people in various countries how to do their acts and how difficult it is for even David Blaine to do what they can do. I also found the focus on different cultures very interesting from Brazilian street performers to Japanese magicians in theaters. This is definitely a reflection of National Geographic’s philosophy to both entertain and educate. The series does contain some scenes that might be disturbing for some viewers such as insects and snakes as well as people using sharp objects on themselves. The episodes contain warnings to not try these things at home and that they are performed by trained professionals. As a result, viewer discretion is advised. However, viewers can skip these scenes and continue to others. After reviewing these episodes, I recommend David Blaine: Do Not Attempt. While it is family friendly, it may not be appropriate for some younger children, especially those who might be inspired to try these things themselves.
Be sure to watch David Blaine: Do Not Attempt when it premieres Sunday March 23rd on NatGeo TV and begins streaming the following day on Disney+ and Hulu.
Here is a trailer for the series.
