“Centuries of Deception” traces the roots of magic to the Egyptian empire of 249 B.C.

“Mystery in America” shows magic riding the crest of vaudeville. It also picks up with Harry Houdini, whom Jay pronounces “the world’s first superstar.” Besides all of the wondrous, death-defying stunt footage of the magic great, Houdini is singled out for his crusade against spiritualism and embracing of film.