It's actually `git commit --amend --no-edit`, but yes, it's basically "just" a shortcut. Count the keystrokes, though. If you spend much time working with git it's a huge win.

Of course you could do something similar with shell aliases or reverse search, but then there are other switches and flags that you need occasionally, etc. And it's sooo much more convenient to have everything in one place right in your editor. It's almost unfair how much faster I can get stuff done than folks who don't use it ;)

Magit isn't hype, it's as good as everyone says it is. You just have to try it.