DVD Review: Asi's Time is Money

In this astounding routine, you borrow a signed bill from a spectator and fold it with a second bill that you provide. When the bills are unfolded, the spectator’s bill has vanished. To return the money, the signed bill is found under the spectator’s watch. This is an excellent routine that stuns spectators and packs small and plays big. On the DVD, Asi says that he often closes his strolling set with this effect.

Watch This

This fantastic routine is impromptu and offers built-in misdirection that allows you to work in almost any situation. All you need to carry is a pre-folded bill. And once you gain experience with the routine, you can make the gimmick in private in a couple of minutes out of any bill.

While I’ve enjoyed watching others perform “coin under watch,” a similar effect, I prefer this version with a bill. For one thing, almost every spectator carries bills on them which makes bills easy to borrow. The signing of the bill is easy for spectators to perform and verifies the fact that it is indeed the same bill that’s found later under their watch.

While it’s not natural to sign a bill, it’s stranger to ask a spectator to sign a coin. And you don’t have to worry about the temperature of a bill as you do when working with a coin in this type of effect.

Bill Fold-ing

The secret relies on an intriguing bill fold, which Asi’s thoroughly explains. He offers different angles, and discusses different watches, what to look for and timing. As with tricks of this nature, the routine requires a gutsy move on the level of the classic “ashes” trick. Beginners, or those who are nervous when performing magic, may dislike this aspect.

Bonus routines offer variations on the basic trick. In “Morph,” the borrowed bill turns into a bill of another denomination, your choice. Likewise, in “Bill to Change,” the borrowed dollar turns into a coin.

More Variations

“Too Bad” lets a spectator contribute a dollar bill that is folded with one that the magician provides. After signing one bill, which indicates ownership, the spectator finds that he has signed his own bill and not the $100 bill that the magician has provided. None of these effects are stronger than the main trick, but may offer options if a spectator isn’t wearing a watch.

“Crumpled” is simply a variation of Asi’s standard trick, but the disappearance of the bill occurs from a crumpled set of bills. Some may find this handling to be more natural. Finally, Asi offers suggestions to perform the effect on stage.

Time is Indeed Money

Asi’s “Time is Money” is an excellent close-up routine. Intermediate to advanced magicians will be able to work this up and add it to their repertoires. It’s not beyond the capabilities of beginners, but it does require that gutsy move that may be an obstacle.

I know that I plan to work this one up. It’s a definite keeper.

-Wayne N. Kawamoto

Dealers can purchase from Murphy's Magic Supplies, Inc.