Reviews of All Card-Related Items
Review: Make Amends by Wayne Fox
Magicians generally love torn and restored playing card effects. In this regard, Wayne Fox's "Make Amends" offers something different. In this take on the classic plot where a card is torn and then brought back to its initial, pre-ripped state, the card is completely restored in the blink of an eye.
Magicians generally love torn and restored playing card effects. In this regard, Wayne Fox's "Make Amends" offers something different. In this take on the classic plot where a card is torn and then brought back to its initial, pre-ripped state, the card is completely restored in the blink of an eye.
Review: Total Vanish by Etienne Pradier
According to the ad, "a single playing card held at the fingertips visually melts away into nothing." Well, the card doesn't actually "melt away into nothing," after all, this would imply real magic. In the end, this vanish should be adequate under a variety of conditions, but it's only for magicians with large hands. Also, it's really no better than using a classic sleight-of-hand method.
According to the ad, "a single playing card held at the fingertips visually melts away into nothing." Well, the card doesn't actually "melt away into nothing," after all, this would imply real magic. In the end, this vanish should be adequate under a variety of conditions, but it's only for magicians with large hands. Also, it's really no better than using a classic sleight-of-hand method.
Deck Dropper by Trevor Duffy
If your magic can use the almost instant production of a deck of cards, you'll like Trevor Duffy's Deck Dropper. This exceptionally well made device fits into the sleeve of your jacket to drop a deck into your waiting hand. While there is a well known method to deliver a deck of cards in a similar manner through the sleeve, Duffy's mechanical approach is cleaner and stronger.
If your magic can use the almost instant production of a deck of cards, you'll like Trevor Duffy's Deck Dropper. This exceptionally well made device fits into the sleeve of your jacket to drop a deck into your waiting hand. While there is a well known method to deliver a deck of cards in a similar manner through the sleeve, Duffy's mechanical approach is cleaner and stronger.
Review: Exodus by Cosmo Solano
In this effect with playing cards, a freely selected card from a group of eight vanishes from the packet and ends up back in the deck. While similar effects can be accomplished via sleight of hand, this one relies on heavily gimmicked cards. Overall, I prefer the sleight of hand approaches that will work with any deck.
In this effect with playing cards, a freely selected card from a group of eight vanishes from the packet and ends up back in the deck. While similar effects can be accomplished via sleight of hand, this one relies on heavily gimmicked cards. Overall, I prefer the sleight of hand approaches that will work with any deck.
Review: Duplicity by John Bannon
Here's a great packet card trick - a multi-phased routine that is interactive, baffling and clean. And at the end, everything may be examined. Packet tricks don't get much better than this.
Here's a great packet card trick - a multi-phased routine that is interactive, baffling and clean. And at the end, everything may be examined. Packet tricks don't get much better than this.
Review: The Disappearance by Jay Sankey
Here's a good bit of mentalism where a spectator's chosen card vanishes in two different ways. It's an intriguing, commercial effect from Jay Sankey that can work in formal close-up shows and strolling.
Here's a good bit of mentalism where a spectator's chosen card vanishes in two different ways. It's an intriguing, commercial effect from Jay Sankey that can work in formal close-up shows and strolling.
Review: Inked by Jordan Johnson
If you've ever wanted to open your mouth to perform a magic trick, Inked may be for you. Inked causes a pip from a card to vanish and appear as a tattoo inside your cheek.
If you've ever wanted to open your mouth to perform a magic trick, Inked may be for you. Inked causes a pip from a card to vanish and appear as a tattoo inside your cheek.
Review: Capitulating Queens by James Swain and Gary Plants
Here's a great packet effect that you can always carry with you. In the effect, the backs of a set of four queens continually change colors and design. This one is very strong.
Here's a great packet effect that you can always carry with you. In the effect, the backs of a set of four queens continually change colors and design. This one is very strong.
Review: Prodigal Aces by Cosmo Solano
Here's a striking four ace trick where four aces in four different piles come together into a single pile. This effect is notable because it uses none of the usual sleights associated with these types of effects, which may make it easier to learn and perform.
Here's a striking four ace trick where four aces in four different piles come together into a single pile. This effect is notable because it uses none of the usual sleights associated with these types of effects, which may make it easier to learn and perform.
Review: Enlightenment Custom Installed Deck by Ben Harris
Here's a professional and well made gimmick that makes a freely selected card rise and float about an inch above the deck. You control the floating card, the spectator can hold the deck as the levitation occurs and the freely selected card may be examined before and after.
Here's a professional and well made gimmick that makes a freely selected card rise and float about an inch above the deck. You control the floating card, the spectator can hold the deck as the levitation occurs and the freely selected card may be examined before and after.
Review: Grillz by David Leon
Is it the "ultimate card to mouth?" Indeed, "Grillz" offers a fun premise - a card revelation that is spelled out in rhinestones in your rapper-style silver teeth. While this can work as a simple revelation, the effect comes with a good four-phased routine.
Is it the "ultimate card to mouth?" Indeed, "Grillz" offers a fun premise - a card revelation that is spelled out in rhinestones in your rapper-style silver teeth. While this can work as a simple revelation, the effect comes with a good four-phased routine.
Review TSCTW (The Smallest Card Through Window)
Forget about throwing a selected playing card through a window. With TSCTW, you cause a tiny corner of a selected and signed playing to penetrate through the crystal into your watch. The corner is actually resting on the watch’s face, under the glass, an intriguing feat with potential.
Forget about throwing a selected playing card through a window. With TSCTW, you cause a tiny corner of a selected and signed playing to penetrate through the crystal into your watch. The corner is actually resting on the watch’s face, under the glass, an intriguing feat with potential.
Review: Glimpse 20 20 by Marc Spelmann
Marc Spelmann's excellent Glimpse offers an altered card box that allows you peek at the contents inside.
Marc Spelmann's excellent Glimpse offers an altered card box that allows you peek at the contents inside.
Magic Castle Performance Live by Ed Ellis
Perhaps more of a companion to his last DVD, The Castle Routine by Ed Ellis, this DVD, Magic Castle Performance Live!, allows you to see Ellis' entire close-up act, as he performed it at Hollywood's Magic Castle.
Perhaps more of a companion to his last DVD, The Castle Routine by Ed Ellis, this DVD, Magic Castle Performance Live!, allows you to see Ellis' entire close-up act, as he performed it at Hollywood's Magic Castle.
Review: Trick Cyclist by Andrew Normansell
Here's an intriguing card trick where a joker somehow locates three selected and signed cards. And beyond simply locating each spectator's card, there’s some built in humor with a gag card and a great finish with a card from your pocket.
Here's an intriguing card trick where a joker somehow locates three selected and signed cards. And beyond simply locating each spectator's card, there’s some built in humor with a gag card and a great finish with a card from your pocket.
Director's Cut by Simon Shaw
If you want to perform card tricks that feature famous movies, "Director's Cut" offers a special deck of cards and a DVD that teaches you five effects. While I like the movie cards, I think $50 is rather pricey, and in the end, you're pretty much performing conventional card tricks with movie cards.
If you want to perform card tricks that feature famous movies, "Director's Cut" offers a special deck of cards and a DVD that teaches you five effects. While I like the movie cards, I think $50 is rather pricey, and in the end, you're pretty much performing conventional card tricks with movie cards.
Review: Split Up by Docc Hilford
Something of a "do as I do" card trick with an intriguing premise and a novel set of cards, "Split Up" offers a great, built-in story line and it's easy to learn and perform.
Something of a "do as I do" card trick with an intriguing premise and a novel set of cards, "Split Up" offers a great, built-in story line and it's easy to learn and perform.
Review: Snapped by Cameron Francis
This trick promises to let you "bring a photograph to life and remove a signed selection from inside."
This trick promises to let you "bring a photograph to life and remove a signed selection from inside."
Review: Startling by Wayne Dobson
While it's simply a card trick, I like the intriguing and different theme - a play on words - that allows you to reveal a spectator's selected card. I performed this one several times for my restaurant regulars over the weekend and it received positive responses. This one is easy to learn and perform.
While it's simply a card trick, I like the intriguing and different theme - a play on words - that allows you to reveal a spectator's selected card. I performed this one several times for my restaurant regulars over the weekend and it received positive responses. This one is easy to learn and perform.
Review: The Changer by Mark Southworth
Here's a fast and sweet color change that causes a box of red Bicycle cards to quickly change into a box of blue Bicycle cards. Yes, the box itself changes colors in front of spectators' eyes and depending on how you want to work this, Mark Southworth provides ways to end completely clean.
Here's a fast and sweet color change that causes a box of red Bicycle cards to quickly change into a box of blue Bicycle cards. Yes, the box itself changes colors in front of spectators' eyes and depending on how you want to work this, Mark Southworth provides ways to end completely clean.
Review: Celebrity Autographs Trick by Terry LaGerould
Here's an excellent variation on card to wallet. The theme involves a collection of celebrity autographs to which you add a spectatorÂ’s signature.
Here's an excellent variation on card to wallet. The theme involves a collection of celebrity autographs to which you add a spectatorÂ’s signature.
Review: Bite Me by Paul Gertner
In this offbeat effect that has the edgy appeal of "playing card to mouth," but with more teeth, Gertner allows you to take a bite out of a deck of cards and find a spectator's selected card. The effect looks great and Gertner offers superb handling and a great theme.
In this offbeat effect that has the edgy appeal of "playing card to mouth," but with more teeth, Gertner allows you to take a bite out of a deck of cards and find a spectator's selected card. The effect looks great and Gertner offers superb handling and a great theme.
Review: Invisible by Jay Sankey
Jay Sankey takes on the well known "Invisible Deck." If you are interested in learning more about this trick and mastering some subtleties and want to benefit from Sankey's advice on making the effect more convincing, "Invisible" offers a thorough treatment of the topic.
Jay Sankey takes on the well known "Invisible Deck." If you are interested in learning more about this trick and mastering some subtleties and want to benefit from Sankey's advice on making the effect more convincing, "Invisible" offers a thorough treatment of the topic.
Review: Royal Tonte by Bob Sheets
It's a strong, in-the-hands version of three card monte, which is now available in jumbo cards to be performed in stand-up situations. With a concept by Ton Onasaka and a routine by Bob Sheets, you know that this one is good. In "monte" fashion, a spectator is asked to find the different card from a set of mixed cards, but is always wrong. At the end, the cards turn into other cards to form a royal flush.
It's a strong, in-the-hands version of three card monte, which is now available in jumbo cards to be performed in stand-up situations. With a concept by Ton Onasaka and a routine by Bob Sheets, you know that this one is good. In "monte" fashion, a spectator is asked to find the different card from a set of mixed cards, but is always wrong. At the end, the cards turn into other cards to form a royal flush.
Review: SCOnK (Signed Card on Key Ring) by Jordan Johnson
Here's yet another signed card to impossible location. In SCOnK (Signed Card On Keyring), a spectator's signed card vanishes from the deck and is made to appear between two cards that have been added to the spectator's key ring. The concept is solid and the method is viable, but the execution is rather pedestrian.
Here's yet another signed card to impossible location. In SCOnK (Signed Card On Keyring), a spectator's signed card vanishes from the deck and is made to appear between two cards that have been added to the spectator's key ring. The concept is solid and the method is viable, but the execution is rather pedestrian.
Review of Perfection by Oz Pearlman
Here's a great close-up effect that echoes Paul Curry's excellent "Out of this World." A spectator selects a bunch of cards from the deck and several audience members shuffle this pack as you shuffle the remaining cards. Despite the mixing, the cards are dealt in a specific order.
Here's a great close-up effect that echoes Paul Curry's excellent "Out of this World." A spectator selects a bunch of cards from the deck and several audience members shuffle this pack as you shuffle the remaining cards. Despite the mixing, the cards are dealt in a specific order.
Review of NEVERmind by Jon Maronge
Here's an easy packet card effect where four cards turn into four aces. ThereÂ’s no sleight of hand or tricky moves as the effect happens courtesy of gimmicked cards. Also, this one can play strong and work to different themes.
Here's an easy packet card effect where four cards turn into four aces. ThereÂ’s no sleight of hand or tricky moves as the effect happens courtesy of gimmicked cards. Also, this one can play strong and work to different themes.
Review: Jokers Wild by Rodger Lovins
In what amounts to a mechanical card or color change, in Rodger Lovins' latest, "Jokers Wild," a joker visually and seamlessly turns into the spectators selected card. This one is easy to learn and perform and the simple mechanism is reliable and repeatable.
In what amounts to a mechanical card or color change, in Rodger Lovins' latest, "Jokers Wild," a joker visually and seamlessly turns into the spectators selected card. This one is easy to learn and perform and the simple mechanism is reliable and repeatable.
Review: Colour Burn by David Forrest
Here's a stunning color change where you transform the back of a playing card from blue to red. The catch here is that spectators see the card change in stages.
Here's a stunning color change where you transform the back of a playing card from blue to red. The catch here is that spectators see the card change in stages.
Review: Branded by Tim Trono
You show a painful looking blister on your thumb. A spectator selects a card and concentrates on it while gazing into the flame from your lighter. You pinch the flame and the blister morphs into symbols that represent the chosen card. Tim Trono offers an innovative and practical method for the blister effect.
You show a painful looking blister on your thumb. A spectator selects a card and concentrates on it while gazing into the flame from your lighter. You pinch the flame and the blister morphs into symbols that represent the chosen card. Tim Trono offers an innovative and practical method for the blister effect.
Review: Master Card Routines by Chris Priest
A second winner from magician Chris Priest, this time it's his take on playing cards. I thoroughly liked Priest’s sponge ball routine as taught on his "Protons" DVD. This title offers his commercial and entertaining routines with playing cards that feature lots of audience interaction.
A second winner from magician Chris Priest, this time it's his take on playing cards. I thoroughly liked Priest’s sponge ball routine as taught on his "Protons" DVD. This title offers his commercial and entertaining routines with playing cards that feature lots of audience interaction.
Review: The Castle Routine by Ed Ellis
This DVD tips Ed Ellis' visual and entertaining 10-minute card routine that he performed at Hollywood's Magic Castle. He bills himself as the "world's fastest hands" and who's to argue? The routine is flashy, impressive and magical, and just about anyone can carry away some new moves and techniques.
This DVD tips Ed Ellis' visual and entertaining 10-minute card routine that he performed at Hollywood's Magic Castle. He bills himself as the "world's fastest hands" and who's to argue? The routine is flashy, impressive and magical, and just about anyone can carry away some new moves and techniques.
Review: Liquid (Card Through Window) by Taylor Lewis
This card through window offers an angle that I have not seen before. With a gimmick, a spectator's selected card not only isolates itself from the rest of the deck, but appears to pass through the glass. The spectator can tap his finger on the card to verify that the card is "on the other side." It's an intriguing concept, but the effect feels rather insecure to me.
This card through window offers an angle that I have not seen before. With a gimmick, a spectator's selected card not only isolates itself from the rest of the deck, but appears to pass through the glass. The spectator can tap his finger on the card to verify that the card is "on the other side." It's an intriguing concept, but the effect feels rather insecure to me.
Review: 52 Ways to Cheat at Poker by Allan Kronzek
Paul Simon said in a song that there are 50 ways to leave your lover, and Allan Kronzek proves in his excellent book that there are 52 ways to cheat at poker. This book will appeal to anyone who is interested in card magic, card cheating and/or poker. There were some techniques that I was already familiar with and many that were new to me.
Paul Simon said in a song that there are 50 ways to leave your lover, and Allan Kronzek proves in his excellent book that there are 52 ways to cheat at poker. This book will appeal to anyone who is interested in card magic, card cheating and/or poker. There were some techniques that I was already familiar with and many that were new to me.
Build Your Own Card Fountain For Under $20
With card fountains priced anywhere between $60 for a basic model and $130-$500 for an upper-end, radio controlled version, you can save some bucks by making your own device. And if you're so inclined and have the time and tools, this DVD shows you how.
With card fountains priced anywhere between $60 for a basic model and $130-$500 for an upper-end, radio controlled version, you can save some bucks by making your own device. And if you're so inclined and have the time and tools, this DVD shows you how.
Trick Review: Wipe The Slate Clean by Chris Webb
This color change effect relies on a heavily and cleverly gimmicked card, but it takes work to make the gimmick pass the scrutiny of close-up crowds. And in the end, most of what you can do with the gaff can be accomplished with sleight of hand.
This color change effect relies on a heavily and cleverly gimmicked card, but it takes work to make the gimmick pass the scrutiny of close-up crowds. And in the end, most of what you can do with the gaff can be accomplished with sleight of hand.
Review: Card Stab (World's Greatest Magic)
This DVD offers seven different and entertaining ways to find a selected with a knife that fall into five categories. It's a great overview and if you're interested in the effect, you'll probably find a method that you can use.
This DVD offers seven different and entertaining ways to find a selected with a knife that fall into five categories. It's a great overview and if you're interested in the effect, you'll probably find a method that you can use.
Review: Hypervisual (With Cards) by Jay Sankey
Sankey's DVD explains some impressive tricks that you can perform with its set of gimmicked cards, but the bulk of the DVD is devoted to teaching color change techniques. It's a great way to learn these moves.
Sankey's DVD explains some impressive tricks that you can perform with its set of gimmicked cards, but the bulk of the DVD is devoted to teaching color change techniques. It's a great way to learn these moves.
Trick Review: Secrets Of The Octopus Deck Revealed by Bill Abbott
A cool mentalism prop that has the potential for as much if not more impact than a standard tossed-out deck routine, Bill Abbott's Octopus Deck offers an intriguing gimmicked deck. This giant slayer is a complete mind reading routine with three phases. Wait until you get your tentacles on this one.
A cool mentalism prop that has the potential for as much if not more impact than a standard tossed-out deck routine, Bill Abbott's Octopus Deck offers an intriguing gimmicked deck. This giant slayer is a complete mind reading routine with three phases. Wait until you get your tentacles on this one.
Trick Review: Timecard by Gordon Bean
Here's another brilliant trick from Gordon Bean. It's a powerful and surprising prediction effect that's been combined with a card revelation. And as the name implies, it's about time.
Here's another brilliant trick from Gordon Bean. It's a powerful and surprising prediction effect that's been combined with a card revelation. And as the name implies, it's about time.
Trick Review: Wild Poker Trick by Boris Wild
Another poker-related title that capitalizes on the game's recent popularity is Boris Wild's Wild Poker Trick. This effect offers a visual and spectacular transformation where a poor poker hand suddenly turns into a royal flush in spades.
Another poker-related title that capitalizes on the game's recent popularity is Boris Wild's Wild Poker Trick. This effect offers a visual and spectacular transformation where a poor poker hand suddenly turns into a royal flush in spades.
DVD Review: Captured by James Clark
In Captured, a spectator selects a card and then you bring out a Polaroid camera and take a picture of the spectator. You hand the Polaroid picture to the spectator and as the picture slowly develops, the spectator not only sees his or her image, but a picture of the selected card as well. This is high-impact magic with lots of possibilities.
In Captured, a spectator selects a card and then you bring out a Polaroid camera and take a picture of the spectator. You hand the Polaroid picture to the spectator and as the picture slowly develops, the spectator not only sees his or her image, but a picture of the selected card as well. This is high-impact magic with lots of possibilities.
Trick Review: Falling Angel by Christopher Gustin
Falling Angel is a gimmicked card effect that makes it look as if you are removing an angel from the back of a Bicycle-based ace of clubs and placing it onto the front of the card. It's a good effect, but the handling is probably too difficult for a good number of beginning magicians.
Falling Angel is a gimmicked card effect that makes it look as if you are removing an angel from the back of a Bicycle-based ace of clubs and placing it onto the front of the card. It's a good effect, but the handling is probably too difficult for a good number of beginning magicians.
Trick Review: Snap Shot by Thom Peterson
A fun card revelation where a blurry picture mysteriously develops on a blank card, Thom Peterson's "Snapshot" offers a strong walk-around and close-up effect that leaves a souvenir with spectators.
A fun card revelation where a blurry picture mysteriously develops on a blank card, Thom Peterson's "Snapshot" offers a strong walk-around and close-up effect that leaves a souvenir with spectators.
Trick Review: Bikers by Gordon Bean
There are lots of packet tricks on the market and Gordon Bean's "Bikers" is the finest that I've reviewed. Here, four jokers visually turn into four kings in four phases. And the last card changes as it's held in a spectator's hand.
There are lots of packet tricks on the market and Gordon Bean's "Bikers" is the finest that I've reviewed. Here, four jokers visually turn into four kings in four phases. And the last card changes as it's held in a spectator's hand.
Review: Casino Cut Card by Thom Peterson
Something different, you show a blank card that represents "an old style casino cut card." Like a "wild card" routine, the "cut card" takes on the identity of three freely selected cards. At the end, the "cut card" becomes a mish-mash card that displays parts of many cards. It's a good, if offbeat effect that entertains.
Something different, you show a blank card that represents "an old style casino cut card." Like a "wild card" routine, the "cut card" takes on the identity of three freely selected cards. At the end, the "cut card" becomes a mish-mash card that displays parts of many cards. It's a good, if offbeat effect that entertains.
Trick Review: Lottery Card by Peter Eggink
An intriguing and offbeat card effect, Peter Eggink's Lottery Card allows you reveal a spectator's selection in an unusual manner. The player's chosen card is turned into a virtual lottery card that allows you rub off a revelation on its back with a coin. It's different, but is probably not a stunner.
An intriguing and offbeat card effect, Peter Eggink's Lottery Card allows you reveal a spectator's selection in an unusual manner. The player's chosen card is turned into a virtual lottery card that allows you rub off a revelation on its back with a coin. It's different, but is probably not a stunner.
Trick Review: Infallible by Al Lampkin
Here's an easy packet trick with playing cards that offers a strong prediction and an easy, straight forward method. The instructions leave something to be desired as there are effectively none, but there is a good demo on the enclosed DVD that will allow magicians with some basic knowledge of card techniques to piece together the routine.
Here's an easy packet trick with playing cards that offers a strong prediction and an easy, straight forward method. The instructions leave something to be desired as there are effectively none, but there is a good demo on the enclosed DVD that will allow magicians with some basic knowledge of card techniques to piece together the routine.
Review: Point Blank by Michael Ammar and Jordan Cotler
You bring out a deck of cards, shuffle it and spread it face-up on the table. The spectator can see all the cards and then freely selects one. You pick up the cards in the spread and then immediately show that they are all completely blank. You take back the spectator’s card, and then show that it has turned blank as well.
You bring out a deck of cards, shuffle it and spread it face-up on the table. The spectator can see all the cards and then freely selects one. You pick up the cards in the spread and then immediately show that they are all completely blank. You take back the spectator’s card, and then show that it has turned blank as well.
Review: Super Clipped by Cosmo Solano
This close-up effect is a strong enhancement of a well known, classic trick that we called "The Clipped Card," which is based on an optical illusion. "Super Clipped," which starts as "The Clipped Card," results in a stunning five card change.
This close-up effect is a strong enhancement of a well known, classic trick that we called "The Clipped Card," which is based on an optical illusion. "Super Clipped," which starts as "The Clipped Card," results in a stunning five card change.
Trick Review: Hypno Aces by David Penn
An impressive packet trick that's easy to learn and perform, four "hypno" cards, playing cards with standard "Bicycle" backs and a hypnotic swirl on the front, almost instantaneously turn into four aces. It's an astonishing change that relies on a couple of basic sleights and gimmicked cards.
An impressive packet trick that's easy to learn and perform, four "hypno" cards, playing cards with standard "Bicycle" backs and a hypnotic swirl on the front, almost instantaneously turn into four aces. It's an astonishing change that relies on a couple of basic sleights and gimmicked cards.
DVD Review: Stealing Pips by Oz Pearlman
A refreshingly different DVD on card magic that teaches innovative moves and then shows how to use them in excellent routines, Stealing Pips: The Card Magic of Oz is a winner. The DVD's routines are commercial and strong, and throughout, Oz Pearlman offers thorough instruction. Learn the moves and you'll be able to perform Pearlman's bafflers, and you'll also gain some new moves to apply to existing routines.
A refreshingly different DVD on card magic that teaches innovative moves and then shows how to use them in excellent routines, Stealing Pips: The Card Magic of Oz is a winner. The DVD's routines are commercial and strong, and throughout, Oz Pearlman offers thorough instruction. Learn the moves and you'll be able to perform Pearlman's bafflers, and you'll also gain some new moves to apply to existing routines.
Review: Past Midnight (3 DVD Set) by Benjamin Earl
This three-disc DVD set was a pleasant surprise. I had never before heard of Benjamin Earl, but he's an accomplished card worker with impressive techniques and routines. There's lots to like about this DVD set which will appeal to those who love advanced card techniques and sleights.
This three-disc DVD set was a pleasant surprise. I had never before heard of Benjamin Earl, but he's an accomplished card worker with impressive techniques and routines. There's lots to like about this DVD set which will appeal to those who love advanced card techniques and sleights.
Trick Review: Bling by Adam Topham
An entertaining card revelation where individual jewels end up spelling the name of the spectator's card, Bling has lots of possibilities. Perhaps most notable for its hip and clever name, the effect can handily entertain close-up audiences and fits well into a theme of extravagance and luxury.
An entertaining card revelation where individual jewels end up spelling the name of the spectator's card, Bling has lots of possibilities. Perhaps most notable for its hip and clever name, the effect can handily entertain close-up audiences and fits well into a theme of extravagance and luxury.
Review: Falling For You by Andrew Gerard
As card tricks go, "Falling For You" is a decent effect with a different revelation, but the ad copy deliberately misleads. The effect is a card revelation where you drop cards, one by one, onto the floor, and the spectator's selected card takes a decidedly different path to indicate that it's the chosen one.
As card tricks go, "Falling For You" is a decent effect with a different revelation, but the ad copy deliberately misleads. The effect is a card revelation where you drop cards, one by one, onto the floor, and the spectator's selected card takes a decidedly different path to indicate that it's the chosen one.
Trick Review: Mutanz by Bob Farmer
Yet another packet effect, Mutanz starts with the usual cards that turn face-up and face-down. The difference comes in the trick's ending when the cards mutate into mixed-up cards: two face-to-face and two back-to-back cards. Reset is fast and this one is great for strolling situations.
Yet another packet effect, Mutanz starts with the usual cards that turn face-up and face-down. The difference comes in the trick's ending when the cards mutate into mixed-up cards: two face-to-face and two back-to-back cards. Reset is fast and this one is great for strolling situations.
Review: The Royal Scam - John Bannon
A great packet card effect, John Bannon's The Royal Scam offers two powerful phases and leaves you clean at the end. If you're adept with basic card sleights, you have the skills to perform this winner.
A great packet card effect, John Bannon's The Royal Scam offers two powerful phases and leaves you clean at the end. If you're adept with basic card sleights, you have the skills to perform this winner.
DVD Review: Time and Space by Justin Miller
How about a card trick that alters time and space? Such is the premise in this excellent Justin Miller effect. It's something of a powerful card sandwich routine that's been combined with the merging of several cards into a souvenir that spectators can take with them. It's got the Miller touch because it adds a significant kicker that occurs after spectators think that the effect is effectively over.
How about a card trick that alters time and space? Such is the premise in this excellent Justin Miller effect. It's something of a powerful card sandwich routine that's been combined with the merging of several cards into a souvenir that spectators can take with them. It's got the Miller touch because it adds a significant kicker that occurs after spectators think that the effect is effectively over.
DVD Review: X Marks The Spot by Justin Miller
When Justin Miller marks a spot with an "X," he's not messing around. This effect is a stunning baffler where a spectator's signed card changes from a red-backed card into a blue-backed card, and the entire deck suddenly sports "Xs" on the back of each card. Miller brilliantly creates two stunning phases that amazes audiences.
When Justin Miller marks a spot with an "X," he's not messing around. This effect is a stunning baffler where a spectator's signed card changes from a red-backed card into a blue-backed card, and the entire deck suddenly sports "Xs" on the back of each card. Miller brilliantly creates two stunning phases that amazes audiences.
Review: Pop Card by Steven and Michael Pignataro
The motivation to perform ever-more impossible "card to impossible location" drives us this effect. As the name implies, In Pop Card, you produce a spectator's signed card from inside of a gooey Pop-Tart.
The motivation to perform ever-more impossible "card to impossible location" drives us this effect. As the name implies, In Pop Card, you produce a spectator's signed card from inside of a gooey Pop-Tart.
Review: Alpha Cards by Jesse Feinberg
Here's an interesting idea, heat sensitive cards that allow a four of hearts to change into a four of spades and back again. The cards are completely reusable and can allow for some fun transpositions and literal color changes.
Here's an interesting idea, heat sensitive cards that allow a four of hearts to change into a four of spades and back again. The cards are completely reusable and can allow for some fun transpositions and literal color changes.
Review: Toasted by Rodger Lovins
In "Toasted," a spectator's card suddenly pops up from the deck. It’s essentially a fast rising card that is visual and quick.
In "Toasted," a spectator's card suddenly pops up from the deck. It’s essentially a fast rising card that is visual and quick.
Review: Mesika's Wallet (Card To Wallet) By Yigal Mesika
If you want to perform "card to wallet" where a spectator's signed card ends up inside your wallet, Yigal Mesika offers a version that is great for producing folded cards. The prop is a quality one that's made of leather and it looks like a regular wallet that most men would carry around.
If you want to perform "card to wallet" where a spectator's signed card ends up inside your wallet, Yigal Mesika offers a version that is great for producing folded cards. The prop is a quality one that's made of leather and it looks like a regular wallet that most men would carry around.
Trick Review: Final Fusion by Jay Sankey
If you want to reveal a spectator's chosen card in a spectacular manner, how about fusing its image onto a card box? This is what you can do with Jay Sankey's "Final Fusion." The effect is strong and visual and Sankey offers lots of clever variations that you can learn and perform. My only reservation is that the gimmicked card boxes will quickly wear out with repeated use.
If you want to reveal a spectator's chosen card in a spectacular manner, how about fusing its image onto a card box? This is what you can do with Jay Sankey's "Final Fusion." The effect is strong and visual and Sankey offers lots of clever variations that you can learn and perform. My only reservation is that the gimmicked card boxes will quickly wear out with repeated use.
Review: ZED+ Wallet
The ZED+ Wallet is a "z"-fold wallet that allows you switch one side of the wallet for the other to execute exchanges, vanishes, appearances and more. Using the wallet you can secretly exchange two cards in your wallet, swap-out written billets, exchange flat objects such as credit cards and business cards, make flat objects disappear, make drawings or writing appear on paper, exchange paper currency and more.
The ZED+ Wallet is a "z"-fold wallet that allows you switch one side of the wallet for the other to execute exchanges, vanishes, appearances and more. Using the wallet you can secretly exchange two cards in your wallet, swap-out written billets, exchange flat objects such as credit cards and business cards, make flat objects disappear, make drawings or writing appear on paper, exchange paper currency and more.
DVD Review: Blank by Kenton Knepper
The theme is "blank" and on this DVD, Kenton Knepper tips two powerful card effects. What Knepper has done is take two simple and well known card tricks that reveal a particular card or set of cards, and created routines that allow the rest of the deck to be shown blank at the end. As a result, the routines have solid initial revelations, where most card tricks would end, and considerable kickers that are downright devastating.
The theme is "blank" and on this DVD, Kenton Knepper tips two powerful card effects. What Knepper has done is take two simple and well known card tricks that reveal a particular card or set of cards, and created routines that allow the rest of the deck to be shown blank at the end. As a result, the routines have solid initial revelations, where most card tricks would end, and considerable kickers that are downright devastating.
DVD Review: Card To Wallet (World's Greatest Magic)
Card to wallet is one of many standard routines where a spectator's selected card somehow ends up in an impossible place, in this case, the magician's wallet. On this DVD, it's a pleasure to watch the likes of John Mendoza, Alexander deCova, Michael Ammar, Eddie Tullock, Dan Fleshman, Alex Elmsley and Eric DeCamps in action. And if you want to learn such a routine, this DVD offers a good place to begin.
Card to wallet is one of many standard routines where a spectator's selected card somehow ends up in an impossible place, in this case, the magician's wallet. On this DVD, it's a pleasure to watch the likes of John Mendoza, Alexander deCova, Michael Ammar, Eddie Tullock, Dan Fleshman, Alex Elmsley and Eric DeCamps in action. And if you want to learn such a routine, this DVD offers a good place to begin.
DVD Review: Business Card Card-iographic by Brian Curry
A spectator selects a card and returns it to the deck. You show your business card which has an image of a deck of cards drawn on it. Slowly, and in full view, a drawing of the spectator’s card slowly rises from it. After the rise, you peel off the card and give it to the spectator.
A spectator selects a card and returns it to the deck. You show your business card which has an image of a deck of cards drawn on it. Slowly, and in full view, a drawing of the spectator’s card slowly rises from it. After the rise, you peel off the card and give it to the spectator.
Review: Hyper-Bent-Elation
"Hyper-Bent-Elation" is an unusual and refreshingly different card trick that warps spectators into the fourth dimension and leaves them with a souvenir, and if you like, your business card in their hands. The effect applies a well known optical illusion/puzzler to playing cards. It's a brilliant idea that makes for an impressive and entertaining effect, and another great product from Daryl.
"Hyper-Bent-Elation" is an unusual and refreshingly different card trick that warps spectators into the fourth dimension and leaves them with a souvenir, and if you like, your business card in their hands. The effect applies a well known optical illusion/puzzler to playing cards. It's a brilliant idea that makes for an impressive and entertaining effect, and another great product from Daryl.
Review: Elite CardGuard
You know you're a magician when you want to protect and maintain your playing cards. For this, Elite CardGuard is a card case that's made from lightweight and sturdy aluminum that offers excellent protection for your cards. The sleek and classy guard also looks great and will probably impress your friends and audiences.
You know you're a magician when you want to protect and maintain your playing cards. For this, Elite CardGuard is a card case that's made from lightweight and sturdy aluminum that offers excellent protection for your cards. The sleek and classy guard also looks great and will probably impress your friends and audiences.
Trick Review: Psycolor Change Deck by Kenton Knepper
Here's a card color change effect that is part conventional method and a bigger part psychology. The method is so simple that it will appear to magicians that it could never work, but its simplicity creates a stunning change that also leaves you clean. And unlike most color change effects, there’s no sleight of hand.
Here's a card color change effect that is part conventional method and a bigger part psychology. The method is so simple that it will appear to magicians that it could never work, but its simplicity creates a stunning change that also leaves you clean. And unlike most color change effects, there’s no sleight of hand.
DVD Review: “Neo Change” by Daryl Sato
A ten-minute DVD that explains a single move, a card color change, "Neo Change" is indeed visual, but comes with certain angle considerations. With the deck held sideways in your left hand, card faces towards spectators, you slowly pass your hand a few inches from the deck and the card visually changes. If you like, there's a second phase that changes the first card into a second one.
A ten-minute DVD that explains a single move, a card color change, "Neo Change" is indeed visual, but comes with certain angle considerations. With the deck held sideways in your left hand, card faces towards spectators, you slowly pass your hand a few inches from the deck and the card visually changes. If you like, there's a second phase that changes the first card into a second one.
DVD Review: Accidental Discovery by Tank
Taking the "card to impossible location" effect to a new level, a chosen card can now be produced from any place that a spectator wishes. While none other than Kenton Knepper and Tank say that this is one of their favorite effects, I have mixed feelings about this one.
Taking the "card to impossible location" effect to a new level, a chosen card can now be produced from any place that a spectator wishes. While none other than Kenton Knepper and Tank say that this is one of their favorite effects, I have mixed feelings about this one.
Trick Review: Ascension by Nick Langham
Here's yet another take on the rising card effect. While most rising cards are much the same - a spectator selects card, returns it to the deck and the magician causes said card to rise from deck - Ascension offers a stronger revelation. Some may prefer the traditional plot, but I’m sure that many would welcome this fresh approach.
Here's yet another take on the rising card effect. While most rising cards are much the same - a spectator selects card, returns it to the deck and the magician causes said card to rise from deck - Ascension offers a stronger revelation. Some may prefer the traditional plot, but I’m sure that many would welcome this fresh approach.
Trick Review: Autobahn by David Forrest
If you can use a "card at any number" effect - a spectator's freely named card ends-up at a freely chosen number in a deck of cards, David Forrest is definitely onto something here.
If you can use a "card at any number" effect - a spectator's freely named card ends-up at a freely chosen number in a deck of cards, David Forrest is definitely onto something here.
Trick Review: Deep-Rising Card Unlimited
Another card effect where a selected card mysteriously rises out of the deck, Deep-Rising is clumsy and over-priced. The deck and card box are cleverly gimmicked and can withstand a good amount of examination, but the rising is hard to perform while holding your hand in a natural position. I’ve seen stronger methods.
Another card effect where a selected card mysteriously rises out of the deck, Deep-Rising is clumsy and over-priced. The deck and card box are cleverly gimmicked and can withstand a good amount of examination, but the rising is hard to perform while holding your hand in a natural position. I’ve seen stronger methods.
Trick Review: Lady Travels by Kenton Knepper (w/ DVD)
The torn corner is a classic convincer that tells a spectator that the card or bill that’s now found in an impossible location is indeed the very same one that they held in their hands a moment earlier. In "Lady Travels," Kenton Knepper offers a great effect where a chosen card travels to a truly impossible location, and a corner that’s been held by the spectator fits. This one is very strong.
The torn corner is a classic convincer that tells a spectator that the card or bill that’s now found in an impossible location is indeed the very same one that they held in their hands a moment earlier. In "Lady Travels," Kenton Knepper offers a great effect where a chosen card travels to a truly impossible location, and a corner that’s been held by the spectator fits. This one is very strong.
DVD Review: Mental Influence by Kenton Knepper
Kenton Knepper is a master at psychology and magic and has the keen ability to take well known tricks and apply subtleties and suggestions that turn them into bafflers. This is the case with two card tricks that are explained on this DVD that are loaded with psychological twists and turns.
Kenton Knepper is a master at psychology and magic and has the keen ability to take well known tricks and apply subtleties and suggestions that turn them into bafflers. This is the case with two card tricks that are explained on this DVD that are loaded with psychological twists and turns.
Trick Review: Riser Deck by Mark Elsdon
Want something different to end your ambitious card routine? If you’ve done the wallet or the envelope or any other “card to impossible place,” you may like the Riser Deck. This impressive gimmick allows you perform classic ambitious card where a chosen card repeatedly rises in the deck, but it happens while the deck is in its box.
Want something different to end your ambitious card routine? If you’ve done the wallet or the envelope or any other “card to impossible place,” you may like the Riser Deck. This impressive gimmick allows you perform classic ambitious card where a chosen card repeatedly rises in the deck, but it happens while the deck is in its box.
Fingers of Fury Vol.2 (Death By Cards) by Alan Rorrison
Does the world need more card tricks? I often ask this when I pop in the latest card DVD for review. But in Fingers of Fury Vol. 2, I was pleasantly surprised with some new approaches and fresh ideas from Alan Rorrison. You may find a close-up card trick that you like and will want to learn.
Does the world need more card tricks? I often ask this when I pop in the latest card DVD for review. But in Fingers of Fury Vol. 2, I was pleasantly surprised with some new approaches and fresh ideas from Alan Rorrison. You may find a close-up card trick that you like and will want to learn.
DVD Review: Master Card Technique Vol 1, 2, 3 - World’s Greatest Magic
If you want a solid video reference on card technique, you’ll find it in Master Card Technique. The three disc DVD set offers a comprehensive assortment of key card moves and their variations, and suggestions on how to successfully execute them. The moves are taught and performed by Sepp Holzer and Andy Edmüller.
If you want a solid video reference on card technique, you’ll find it in Master Card Technique. The three disc DVD set offers a comprehensive assortment of key card moves and their variations, and suggestions on how to successfully execute them. The moves are taught and performed by Sepp Holzer and Andy Edmüller.
DVD Review: The Cloak by Justin Miller
If you can use a practical IT hookup, you may find it here on Justin Miller’s DVD. The Cloak offers a standing and sitting-down table hook-up that lets you perform rising card and haunted pack effects - there’s no floating bills or hovering cards here. Millers’ hook-ups are practical and workable in the real world, and the results are superior to the results when you use loops.
If you can use a practical IT hookup, you may find it here on Justin Miller’s DVD. The Cloak offers a standing and sitting-down table hook-up that lets you perform rising card and haunted pack effects - there’s no floating bills or hovering cards here. Millers’ hook-ups are practical and workable in the real world, and the results are superior to the results when you use loops.
DVD Review: Ellis Aces by Ed Ellis
Worker Ed Ellis teaches a fast and visual four ace production and offers some tips for performing common sleights. If you don’t yet have a four ace production routine, you may like Ellis’ approach. I liked his Stair Step Control that he teaches here and the fact that this four ace production doesn’t require a table. This one is great for walk around.
Worker Ed Ellis teaches a fast and visual four ace production and offers some tips for performing common sleights. If you don’t yet have a four ace production routine, you may like Ellis’ approach. I liked his Stair Step Control that he teaches here and the fact that this four ace production doesn’t require a table. This one is great for walk around.
DVD Review: Sam The Bellhop by Bill Malone
Sam The Bellhop is a smashing signature piece of Bill Malone’s that he unveiled to the world in 1994 on the “World’s Greatest Magic” television special. The routine is an offbeat card effect where cards are turned-over, in order, to tell a story. In this case, it’s about Sam the bellhop and the mythical “654" club. He teaches everything that you need to know on this DVD.
Sam The Bellhop is a smashing signature piece of Bill Malone’s that he unveiled to the world in 1994 on the “World’s Greatest Magic” television special. The routine is an offbeat card effect where cards are turned-over, in order, to tell a story. In this case, it’s about Sam the bellhop and the mythical “654" club. He teaches everything that you need to know on this DVD.
Trick Review: Royal Stab by Richard Sanders
Instead of throwing a bunch of cards into the air and somehow stabbing a spectator’s selected card with your knife or pen, in “Royal Stab,” you use the King of Clubs to enter the deck, seek two selected cards and impale them on his swords. The picture says it all. This effect only requires basic sleight-of-hand skills and is easy to perform. It’s a good close-up card trick that you can always carry with you.
Instead of throwing a bunch of cards into the air and somehow stabbing a spectator’s selected card with your knife or pen, in “Royal Stab,” you use the King of Clubs to enter the deck, seek two selected cards and impale them on his swords. The picture says it all. This effect only requires basic sleight-of-hand skills and is easy to perform. It’s a good close-up card trick that you can always carry with you.
Book Review: Fandango - Part 1 by David Forrest
Fulfilling a periodic inclination, in his "Fandango" booklet, David Forrest releases a set of good close-up effects, mostly with cards. I particularly liked his "Seal the Deal" where a previously used deck of cards is found completely sealed in its box - an impressive "back in time" plot. There’s some commercial close-up material to be found here.
Fulfilling a periodic inclination, in his "Fandango" booklet, David Forrest releases a set of good close-up effects, mostly with cards. I particularly liked his "Seal the Deal" where a previously used deck of cards is found completely sealed in its box - an impressive "back in time" plot. There’s some commercial close-up material to be found here.
DVD Review: Bootlegs And B-Sides - Vol. 1 by Sean Fields
This DVD with the unusual title offers Field’s approaches to classic card plots such as “Twisting the Aces,” “The Open Prediction” and Paul Curry’s “Out of This World.” There’s also a killer closer to classic “Ambitious Card” that will excite card enthusiasts. The DVD features some great material, but the routines are probably more for showing off to other magicians than for presenting to lay spectators.
This DVD with the unusual title offers Field’s approaches to classic card plots such as “Twisting the Aces,” “The Open Prediction” and Paul Curry’s “Out of This World.” There’s also a killer closer to classic “Ambitious Card” that will excite card enthusiasts. The DVD features some great material, but the routines are probably more for showing off to other magicians than for presenting to lay spectators.
DVD Review: Strip by Jon Thompson
If you've long shunned the lowly stripper deck, Jon Thompson may change your mind with the techniques on his new DVD, "Strip." As you'll see, a stripper deck in the hands of a skilled magician can form the basis of some astounding effects. The deck is not just for beginners.
If you've long shunned the lowly stripper deck, Jon Thompson may change your mind with the techniques on his new DVD, "Strip." As you'll see, a stripper deck in the hands of a skilled magician can form the basis of some astounding effects. The deck is not just for beginners.
Trick Review: About Face by Jay Sankey
A variation on a classic packet card trick, Jay Sankey’s “About Face” makes the printed Jokers on four Joker cards turn around, one-by-one. Spectators actually see the back of the head of each Joker on each card. Sankey offers brilliant handling that makes it appear that all the Jokers are normal in the beginning and that all have turned their heads at the end. And he offers first rate instruction on the accompanying DVD.
A variation on a classic packet card trick, Jay Sankey’s “About Face” makes the printed Jokers on four Joker cards turn around, one-by-one. Spectators actually see the back of the head of each Joker on each card. Sankey offers brilliant handling that makes it appear that all the Jokers are normal in the beginning and that all have turned their heads at the end. And he offers first rate instruction on the accompanying DVD.
Trick Review: Excalibur Deck by Devin Knight
When you have to force a card under the most scrutinized conditions, consider using Devin Knight’s Excalibur Deck when a slip, hindu, cross-cut or even classic may feel too obvious.
When you have to force a card under the most scrutinized conditions, consider using Devin Knight’s Excalibur Deck when a slip, hindu, cross-cut or even classic may feel too obvious.
DVD Review: Card Trick Magic by Stephane Vanel
If you’re a beginner and want to learn some good card magic, Stephane Vanel’s “Card Trick Magic” offers first rate effects that don’t require complicated sleight-of-hand and are easy to learn and perform. The DVD features 12 card tricks and offers an introduction to basic card sleights. The routines here are excellent for beginners.
If you’re a beginner and want to learn some good card magic, Stephane Vanel’s “Card Trick Magic” offers first rate effects that don’t require complicated sleight-of-hand and are easy to learn and perform. The DVD features 12 card tricks and offers an introduction to basic card sleights. The routines here are excellent for beginners.
Trick Review: Honest Cheat Poker Routine by Alan Bursky
“The Honest Cheat Poker Routine” offers an entertaining five-minute poker themed routine. It’s not hard to perform, requires no sleight of hand and can be performed with any deck. It will take some practice and there’s a setup that needs to occur beforehand, but this one is good.
“The Honest Cheat Poker Routine” offers an entertaining five-minute poker themed routine. It’s not hard to perform, requires no sleight of hand and can be performed with any deck. It will take some practice and there’s a setup that needs to occur beforehand, but this one is good.
DVD Review: Paperclipped Special Edition by Jay Sankey
With two-and-a-half hours of video, Jay Sankey leaves no stone unturned and no aspect uncovered on his famous “Paperclipped Special Edition.” On this DVD, Sankey talks in-depth about technique, patter, psychology and more. It’s a downright video dissertation on the effect.
With two-and-a-half hours of video, Jay Sankey leaves no stone unturned and no aspect uncovered on his famous “Paperclipped Special Edition.” On this DVD, Sankey talks in-depth about technique, patter, psychology and more. It’s a downright video dissertation on the effect.
DVD Review: “The Wedding” by Bruno Copin
I’m all for magic routines that tell stories and Bruno Copin’s “The Wedding” offers an unusual card effect where the individual cards become characters in something of a play. I’m not sure that the story really goes anywhere beyond a basic boy meets girl, gets married and lives happily ever after. The technique and mechanics behind the effect are impressive, but the story telling pales in comparison.
I’m all for magic routines that tell stories and Bruno Copin’s “The Wedding” offers an unusual card effect where the individual cards become characters in something of a play. I’m not sure that the story really goes anywhere beyond a basic boy meets girl, gets married and lives happily ever after. The technique and mechanics behind the effect are impressive, but the story telling pales in comparison.
Trick Review: Numberground by Mickael Chatelain
You reveal a spectator's card as one that you’ve written on the back of a playing card. When you're told that the prediction is wrong, you shake the card and the writing turns into the selected card. The change is visual and the gimmick is a quality one that looks like a normal card. This one is expensive, but the effect and its precision gimmick are impressive.
You reveal a spectator's card as one that you’ve written on the back of a playing card. When you're told that the prediction is wrong, you shake the card and the writing turns into the selected card. The change is visual and the gimmick is a quality one that looks like a normal card. This one is expensive, but the effect and its precision gimmick are impressive.
Trilogy Streamline by Brian Caswell
“Trilogy Streamline” offers a “lite” version of “Trilogy.” Like the original “Trilogy,” this mentalism effect with playing cards offers three strong revelations with three audience members. This one is just as strong as the original “Trilogy” and better suited for strolling magic.
“Trilogy Streamline” offers a “lite” version of “Trilogy.” Like the original “Trilogy,” this mentalism effect with playing cards offers three strong revelations with three audience members. This one is just as strong as the original “Trilogy” and better suited for strolling magic.
Trick Review: Trilogy by Brian Caswell
This mentalism effect with playing cards offers three strong revelations with three audience members. It’s easy to perform; spectators make free choices with a tiny bit of suggestion; the audience sees you working with a single deck of cards and there’s no sleight-of-hand or difficult handling.
This mentalism effect with playing cards offers three strong revelations with three audience members. It’s easy to perform; spectators make free choices with a tiny bit of suggestion; the audience sees you working with a single deck of cards and there’s no sleight-of-hand or difficult handling.
Book Review: Uncovered (Secrets For The Serious Magician) - John Luka
John Luka’s “Uncovered” offers a strong compilation of first class card magic and a few non-card items that will appeal to serious and commercially-oriented magicians. The effects in this book are visual and have a strong impact on spectators and Lukas serves excellent and detailed instructions. And despite the power of his routines, none are “knuckle busters.” This is one great book that I highly recommend.
John Luka’s “Uncovered” offers a strong compilation of first class card magic and a few non-card items that will appeal to serious and commercially-oriented magicians. The effects in this book are visual and have a strong impact on spectators and Lukas serves excellent and detailed instructions. And despite the power of his routines, none are “knuckle busters.” This is one great book that I highly recommend.
DVD Review: The Trilogy (3 DVD Set) by Dan And Dave Buck
Dave and Dan Buck are well known to anyone who’s into magic and surfs the internet. Their creative and wild card flourishes are legendary. The Trilogy offers some six hours of flourishes, moves and fast card tricks. This is visual and flashy card magic that you can incorporate into your own routines. And throughout, from the moves to the menus to the packaging, the Bucks offer a contemporary and relevant feel.
Dave and Dan Buck are well known to anyone who’s into magic and surfs the internet. Their creative and wild card flourishes are legendary. The Trilogy offers some six hours of flourishes, moves and fast card tricks. This is visual and flashy card magic that you can incorporate into your own routines. And throughout, from the moves to the menus to the packaging, the Bucks offer a contemporary and relevant feel.
Trick Review: “You Blue It” by Ed Ellis
Ed Ellis offers a powerful and commercial close-up card effect that involves a signed card and multiple color changes-the back of the card visually changes colors and the spectator’s signature on the face vanishes and reappears. This one is great for strolling and restaurant work and the spectator gets to keep the signed card as a souvenir.
Ed Ellis offers a powerful and commercial close-up card effect that involves a signed card and multiple color changes-the back of the card visually changes colors and the spectator’s signature on the face vanishes and reappears. This one is great for strolling and restaurant work and the spectator gets to keep the signed card as a souvenir.
Trick Review: Crystal Card by Pieras Fitikides
Piera’s Fitikides' Crystal Card offers an intriguing prop, a laminated card that can be shown blank and then displays the suit and value of two chosen cards, in sequence. It’s a brilliant concept that is easy to use, does everything that the ads say, but has some minor drawbacks.
Piera’s Fitikides' Crystal Card offers an intriguing prop, a laminated card that can be shown blank and then displays the suit and value of two chosen cards, in sequence. It’s a brilliant concept that is easy to use, does everything that the ads say, but has some minor drawbacks.
Book Review: Long And Short Of It by Mark Lewis
However, Mark Lewis, in his book, “Long and Short Of It,” explains some intriguing moves with a Svengali deck beyond the standard ones and offers a powerful routine. He also explains various effects that may be performed with a Svengali deck. While most of these can be done with a real deck and sleight of hand, they’re effective routines.
However, Mark Lewis, in his book, “Long and Short Of It,” explains some intriguing moves with a Svengali deck beyond the standard ones and offers a powerful routine. He also explains various effects that may be performed with a Svengali deck. While most of these can be done with a real deck and sleight of hand, they’re effective routines.
Trick Review: Vanishing Point by David Eldridge
Vanishing Point is a decent packet trick with playing cards where four of a kind, say, the queens, are shown front and back and then, one at a time, the cards turn blank until all are blank. And at the end, the cards reprint themselves to their original state.
Vanishing Point is a decent packet trick with playing cards where four of a kind, say, the queens, are shown front and back and then, one at a time, the cards turn blank until all are blank. And at the end, the cards reprint themselves to their original state.
Talking Deck by Rodger Lovins
Is it a powerful card revelation or a strong bit of mentalism? Or is it simply some cool technology that’s posing as a great magic trick. With “Talking Deck” you get a cool electronic gizmo that allows a deck of cards to speak the name of a card, but the resulting effect just isn’t as impressive as the gimmick and secret.
Is it a powerful card revelation or a strong bit of mentalism? Or is it simply some cool technology that’s posing as a great magic trick. With “Talking Deck” you get a cool electronic gizmo that allows a deck of cards to speak the name of a card, but the resulting effect just isn’t as impressive as the gimmick and secret.
Standing Room Only: Vol 2 - Steve Draun
Steve Draun has a reputation as a card man. His Volume 2 DVD is for those who want to learn and master classic gambling sleights and incorporate these techniques into their magic. Here you’ll learn about crimps, the Hermann pass, false and controlled shuffles, second dealing, cutting to aces, stacking a deck as you shuffle it and more. For card artists who want to move to the next level, there’s lots to like.
Steve Draun has a reputation as a card man. His Volume 2 DVD is for those who want to learn and master classic gambling sleights and incorporate these techniques into their magic. Here you’ll learn about crimps, the Hermann pass, false and controlled shuffles, second dealing, cutting to aces, stacking a deck as you shuffle it and more. For card artists who want to move to the next level, there’s lots to like.
Punishment by Patrick McCullagh
Patrick McCullaghis a worker who has developed routines for real-world strolling. There’s some strong material for restaurants on this DVD but there are only four routines (five if you count the “bonus” effect that requires a special set of gimmicked cards). I particularly liked McCullagh’s card under watch and his stunning “Single Cup and Balls” that uses a single metal cup and ball bearings.
Patrick McCullaghis a worker who has developed routines for real-world strolling. There’s some strong material for restaurants on this DVD but there are only four routines (five if you count the “bonus” effect that requires a special set of gimmicked cards). I particularly liked McCullagh’s card under watch and his stunning “Single Cup and Balls” that uses a single metal cup and ball bearings.
DVD Review: Covert Magic by Iain Moran
On Covert Magic, Iain Moran offers a series of excellent close-up card effects and a single coin routine. I like the way that Moran mixes accomplished sleight-of-hand with gimmicks to produce great results. I liked several routines and consider the material here to be quite commercial. However, I think many of effects will appeal more to those who perform for other magicians.
On Covert Magic, Iain Moran offers a series of excellent close-up card effects and a single coin routine. I like the way that Moran mixes accomplished sleight-of-hand with gimmicks to produce great results. I liked several routines and consider the material here to be quite commercial. However, I think many of effects will appeal more to those who perform for other magicians.
Ambitious Card (World's Greatest Magic)
A classic card routine that a majority of close-up magicians, particularly pros, regularly perform, Ambitious Card offers a plot where a chosen card is placed anywhere in a deck of cards and somehow, continually rises to the top. This DVD offers solid advice on learning and performing Ambitious Card from experts. If you want to learn Ambitious Card or want to improve or expand your current routine, you’ll find lots to like here.
A classic card routine that a majority of close-up magicians, particularly pros, regularly perform, Ambitious Card offers a plot where a chosen card is placed anywhere in a deck of cards and somehow, continually rises to the top. This DVD offers solid advice on learning and performing Ambitious Card from experts. If you want to learn Ambitious Card or want to improve or expand your current routine, you’ll find lots to like here.
DVD Review: The Session 2007
Take a camera crew to the “Session 2007" convention, a gathering that’s dedicated to serious sleight-of-hand, record the offerings and routines of numerous magicians and you have this DVD. Many of the routines and techniques on this DVD are of the high-level, finger-flinging variety and span the gamut and tend towards playing cards. There may be some routines and insights that serious practitioners can gain from this DVD, but fifty bucks seems pricey.
Take a camera crew to the “Session 2007" convention, a gathering that’s dedicated to serious sleight-of-hand, record the offerings and routines of numerous magicians and you have this DVD. Many of the routines and techniques on this DVD are of the high-level, finger-flinging variety and span the gamut and tend towards playing cards. There may be some routines and insights that serious practitioners can gain from this DVD, but fifty bucks seems pricey.
3D Paradox by Steve Shufton
A spectator is given a sealed envelope which can even be mailed ahead of time if you’re so inclined. A playing card is freely selected, signed and shuffled back into the pack. The envelope is opened to reveal a greeting card. When the card is opened, a colorful 3D scene pops-up with a small envelope. When the small envelope is opened, it’s found to contain the spectator’s signed card. Performed correctly, this one is a stunner.
A spectator is given a sealed envelope which can even be mailed ahead of time if you’re so inclined. A playing card is freely selected, signed and shuffled back into the pack. The envelope is opened to reveal a greeting card. When the card is opened, a colorful 3D scene pops-up with a small envelope. When the small envelope is opened, it’s found to contain the spectator’s signed card. Performed correctly, this one is a stunner.
Printing by Dominique Duvivier
Duvivier’s “Printing” offers a variation on classic “Wild Card” where a series of playing cards take on the image of other cards and even various objects. The trick is entertaining, plays well and is easy to learn and perform.
Duvivier’s “Printing” offers a variation on classic “Wild Card” where a series of playing cards take on the image of other cards and even various objects. The trick is entertaining, plays well and is easy to learn and perform.
Cash Card by Jesse Feinberg
In this penetration effect, a playing card passes through a dollar bill. A dollar bill is folded around a playing card, which traps the card inside. The card is then slowly pulled through the bill as if melts through it. This one is visual, convincing and easy to learn and perform.
In this penetration effect, a playing card passes through a dollar bill. A dollar bill is folded around a playing card, which traps the card inside. The card is then slowly pulled through the bill as if melts through it. This one is visual, convincing and easy to learn and perform.
Underground Jam by Jay Sankey
On this DVD, Jay Sankey recreates a late-night magic jam session where he and three other entertainers perform and explain their pet close-up effects to each other. This DVD offers some 20 effects, a majority that use playing cards, but there are others that use coins, keys, film canisters and more. This DVD offers a good mix of effects and among the 20, you’re bound to find one that you can use.
On this DVD, Jay Sankey recreates a late-night magic jam session where he and three other entertainers perform and explain their pet close-up effects to each other. This DVD offers some 20 effects, a majority that use playing cards, but there are others that use coins, keys, film canisters and more. This DVD offers a good mix of effects and among the 20, you’re bound to find one that you can use.
Trick Review: CTW (Card Through Window) by David Forrest
Beyond his self-levitation, most lay-people seem to recall David Blaine’s "card through window" from his early television specials. The excellent “CTW” offers a two phase version of the effect that is powerful and relies on an innovative and clever gimmick. I thoroughly like this one and find it to be far better than Kevin Parker’s “Edge,” another card through window trick that we reviewed earlier.
Beyond his self-levitation, most lay-people seem to recall David Blaine’s "card through window" from his early television specials. The excellent “CTW” offers a two phase version of the effect that is powerful and relies on an innovative and clever gimmick. I thoroughly like this one and find it to be far better than Kevin Parker’s “Edge,” another card through window trick that we reviewed earlier.
DVD Review: Mix N' Mingle - Shaun McCree
Mix N' Mingle is an outstanding two-disc DVD set that presents strong close-up material, mostly with cards. Shaun McCree is an entertainer who explains routines that are designed for real-world, walk-around conditions where you’re standing and surrounded.
Mix N' Mingle is an outstanding two-disc DVD set that presents strong close-up material, mostly with cards. Shaun McCree is an entertainer who explains routines that are designed for real-world, walk-around conditions where you’re standing and surrounded.
DVD Review: Zoom, Bounce, And Fly- Jeff McBride
Jeff McBride’s “Zoom, Bounce, And Fly” teaches you how to spin cards in flashy ways to dress up your card manipulation act. This DVD provides some new variations and the complete work on performing McBride’s amazing “floor bouncing” where cards are rapidly spun and thrown from a deck that’s held in one hand and bounced off the floor. And for the first time, McBride unveils a secret gimmick.
Jeff McBride’s “Zoom, Bounce, And Fly” teaches you how to spin cards in flashy ways to dress up your card manipulation act. This DVD provides some new variations and the complete work on performing McBride’s amazing “floor bouncing” where cards are rapidly spun and thrown from a deck that’s held in one hand and bounced off the floor. And for the first time, McBride unveils a secret gimmick.
DVD Review: Scotty York - The Silver Fox 3 Volume Set
Bar magician Scotty York offers all three of his excellent DVDs in a worthwhile three-disc set. Purchasing the discs in this set will save you ten bucks. Indeed, York's collection of tricks are baffling, entertaining and commercial. Next to Doc Eason's material, York's DVDs are recommended watching for aspiring bar magicians.
Bar magician Scotty York offers all three of his excellent DVDs in a worthwhile three-disc set. Purchasing the discs in this set will save you ten bucks. Indeed, York's collection of tricks are baffling, entertaining and commercial. Next to Doc Eason's material, York's DVDs are recommended watching for aspiring bar magicians.
DVD Review: Scotty York Vol.3 - Strikes Again
Bar magician extra ordinaire Scotty York indeed “strikes again� in his third volume DVD. The follow-up to York’s Vol.1 - Professional Tricky Bartender and Vol.2 - Hisownself, York offers another collection of powerful effects. Two that are particularly impressive include: “Card on the Ceiling� and “The Ring in the World.�
Bar magician extra ordinaire Scotty York indeed “strikes again� in his third volume DVD. The follow-up to York’s Vol.1 - Professional Tricky Bartender and Vol.2 - Hisownself, York offers another collection of powerful effects. Two that are particularly impressive include: “Card on the Ceiling� and “The Ring in the World.�
Trick Review: Kate and Edith
One of the funniest effects in magic, “Kate and Edith” is a fantastic routine for bars, nightclubs and adult gatherings. Doc Eason recently re-released Kerry Pollack’s “classic” with a DVD that presents two recordings of his live performances and provides tips, audio files that you can listen to and memorize the routine and more.
One of the funniest effects in magic, “Kate and Edith” is a fantastic routine for bars, nightclubs and adult gatherings. Doc Eason recently re-released Kerry Pollack’s “classic” with a DVD that presents two recordings of his live performances and provides tips, audio files that you can listen to and memorize the routine and more.
Trick Review: Edge by Kevin Parker
The magician displays a card with a torn corner and puts his empty hand around to the other side of a glass door, keeping it there with his fingers spread wide open and the palm visible. The other hand taps the torn card against the opposite side of the glass and the card's corner visually falls into the hand on the other side of the window, seemingly passing right through the glass.
The magician displays a card with a torn corner and puts his empty hand around to the other side of a glass door, keeping it there with his fingers spread wide open and the palm visible. The other hand taps the torn card against the opposite side of the glass and the card's corner visually falls into the hand on the other side of the window, seemingly passing right through the glass.
Top Magic DVDs: Cards
Here are the best magic DVDs for cards that we have reviewed.
Here are the best magic DVDs for cards that we have reviewed.
DVD Review: The World-Renowned Magic of Paul Potassy
Paul Potassy is truly a master magician. He has performed for 66 years in 44 different countries for celebrities, heads of state and even the Pope; speaks six languages and has been called “the Maurice Chevalier of magic.” It’s a pleasure to watch this master in action and to learn the effects in his stand-up show.
Paul Potassy is truly a master magician. He has performed for 66 years in 44 different countries for celebrities, heads of state and even the Pope; speaks six languages and has been called “the Maurice Chevalier of magic.” It’s a pleasure to watch this master in action and to learn the effects in his stand-up show.
Trick Review: Chaos 2 by Mark Elsdon
This is a good, visual card effect that is not difficult to learn, is easy to perform and is great for beginners.“Chaos 2" offers a gimmicked deck that can be cut with the halves placed face to face, and then shown to be completely interlaced with face-up and face-down cards. And afterwards, the deck can be immediately straightened out so all the cards face the same way.
This is a good, visual card effect that is not difficult to learn, is easy to perform and is great for beginners.“Chaos 2" offers a gimmicked deck that can be cut with the halves placed face to face, and then shown to be completely interlaced with face-up and face-down cards. And afterwards, the deck can be immediately straightened out so all the cards face the same way.
DVD Review: Scotty York Vol.1 - Professional Trick Bartender
With two-hours of close-up performances and explanations, it’s worth spending time with veteran Scotty York on his Vol.1 - Professional Trick Bartender. York has performed bar magic for some 15 years in Washington D.C. and the effects that he explains here are baffling, entertaining and commercial.
With two-hours of close-up performances and explanations, it’s worth spending time with veteran Scotty York on his Vol.1 - Professional Trick Bartender. York has performed bar magic for some 15 years in Washington D.C. and the effects that he explains here are baffling, entertaining and commercial.
Trick Review: Psnype by Kevin Parker
The spectator is given a deck of cards. The magician turns his back and tells him to cut the deck to any card and peek at it. After the spectator peeks at a card, the magician tells him the card he peeked at without fishing or even touching the deck.
The spectator is given a deck of cards. The magician turns his back and tells him to cut the deck to any card and peek at it. After the spectator peeks at a card, the magician tells him the card he peeked at without fishing or even touching the deck.
DVD Review: Steve Bedwell - TAPED!
Another DVD that’s a re-release of a good VHS video is Steve Bedwell - TAPED! The DVD showcases Bedwell’s “The Walkman Act,” which awarded him the Gold Cups at a magic competition (performance only) some time ago. This one is fun to watch, if not a bit dated. The DVD also teaches some commercial and visual effects with ropes and cards.
Another DVD that’s a re-release of a good VHS video is Steve Bedwell - TAPED! The DVD showcases Bedwell’s “The Walkman Act,” which awarded him the Gold Cups at a magic competition (performance only) some time ago. This one is fun to watch, if not a bit dated. The DVD also teaches some commercial and visual effects with ropes and cards.
DVD Review: Mamma Mia Magic - Aldo Colombini
An earlier instructional VHS video by Aldo Colombini that’s now been re-released on DVD, “Mamma Mia Magic” presents Columbini’s flashy cups & balls routine and various close-up card and coin effects. For intermediate to advanced magicians, this DVD presents Columbini’s take on several classics that include card and coin transpositions, card matrix, oil & water and spelling to a card.
An earlier instructional VHS video by Aldo Colombini that’s now been re-released on DVD, “Mamma Mia Magic” presents Columbini’s flashy cups & balls routine and various close-up card and coin effects. For intermediate to advanced magicians, this DVD presents Columbini’s take on several classics that include card and coin transpositions, card matrix, oil & water and spelling to a card.
Trick Review: Mag Card DVD
"Mag Card DVD" is a kit that allows you to make your own magnetic cards. While such cards aren’t tricks in themselves, they allow you to perform three effects that are explained on the accompanying DVD. The DVD offers thorough instructions on making your own cards and the resulting tricks are good ones.
"Mag Card DVD" is a kit that allows you to make your own magnetic cards. While such cards aren’t tricks in themselves, they allow you to perform three effects that are explained on the accompanying DVD. The DVD offers thorough instructions on making your own cards and the resulting tricks are good ones.
DVD Review: "Stack Attack" - Lew Brooks
As the name implies, "Stack Attack" offers a collection of impressive card tricks that are based on stacking the deck--putting the cards into a specific, prearranged order. All of the tricks, which end with the magician dealing a winning hand, require no complicated sleight of hand. As a result, the easy tricks on this DVD are perfect for beginners.
As the name implies, "Stack Attack" offers a collection of impressive card tricks that are based on stacking the deck--putting the cards into a specific, prearranged order. All of the tricks, which end with the magician dealing a winning hand, require no complicated sleight of hand. As a result, the easy tricks on this DVD are perfect for beginners.
Trick Review: “Gobsmacked” - Costas Damianou & Simon Lovell
“Free Will Has Left the Building.” So goes the tagline for “Gobsmacked,” an effect where a spectator freely deals cards until he or she wants to stop. When the spectator stops, the magician shows that the rest of the cards are blue backed cards and the spectator’s freely chosen card has a red back with a message written on the back. The power in this effect lies in its perceived free choice.
“Free Will Has Left the Building.” So goes the tagline for “Gobsmacked,” an effect where a spectator freely deals cards until he or she wants to stop. When the spectator stops, the magician shows that the rest of the cards are blue backed cards and the spectator’s freely chosen card has a red back with a message written on the back. The power in this effect lies in its perceived free choice.
Trick Review: Suits You
"Suits You" is an adequate "chaser" effect where three piles of three playing cards are dealt to the table. After moving the top cards to other piles, the magician shows that the like cards have followed the lead card and joined it. I’m not fond of card tricks that use piles and require the constant showing of cards, but this trick is easy to learn and perform and you’re left clean at the end.
"Suits You" is an adequate "chaser" effect where three piles of three playing cards are dealt to the table. After moving the top cards to other piles, the magician shows that the like cards have followed the lead card and joined it. I’m not fond of card tricks that use piles and require the constant showing of cards, but this trick is easy to learn and perform and you’re left clean at the end.
DVD Review: Tempest Concept-Andrew Normansell
Andrew Normansell's "Tempest Concept" promises "The ultimate in challenge card magic!" Exactly what is the "Tempest Concept" and is it truly the ultimate? As it turns out, Tempest is a logical and workable system of card control and glimpses to secretly control the location of a selected card and determine what it is. And secondary, with the card's location and identity known, a spectator can be allowed to shuffle the card without changing the cards location (in most cases).
Andrew Normansell's "Tempest Concept" promises "The ultimate in challenge card magic!" Exactly what is the "Tempest Concept" and is it truly the ultimate? As it turns out, Tempest is a logical and workable system of card control and glimpses to secretly control the location of a selected card and determine what it is. And secondary, with the card's location and identity known, a spectator can be allowed to shuffle the card without changing the cards location (in most cases).
DVD Review: Decks, Lies and Videotape
Brent Braun’s first rate DVD, "Decks, Lies and Videotape," offers four excellent effects: three involving cards and one a ball, and several technique for controlling selected cards. The triumph, transposition and torn & restored card effects are all first rate and the ball effect is stunning but has limited use. I liked the card control techniques that could easily be applied to "select a card" and "ambitious card" effects.
Brent Braun’s first rate DVD, "Decks, Lies and Videotape," offers four excellent effects: three involving cards and one a ball, and several technique for controlling selected cards. The triumph, transposition and torn & restored card effects are all first rate and the ball effect is stunning but has limited use. I liked the card control techniques that could easily be applied to "select a card" and "ambitious card" effects.
DVD Review: Chicarnery-John Carney
John Carney is a magic Jedi master and "Chicarnery," his excellent instructional DVD, serves five great effects with cards and coins. There’s a great signed bill into pen effect that is almost as strong as "bill to lemon," but without the involved setup and resulting mess; a fantastic and visual card color change sequence; a transposition routine where red and black aces change places in a four-card packet and more. If any one effect fits into your repertoire, it's worth the price of this DVD.
John Carney is a magic Jedi master and "Chicarnery," his excellent instructional DVD, serves five great effects with cards and coins. There’s a great signed bill into pen effect that is almost as strong as "bill to lemon," but without the involved setup and resulting mess; a fantastic and visual card color change sequence; a transposition routine where red and black aces change places in a four-card packet and more. If any one effect fits into your repertoire, it's worth the price of this DVD.
DVD Review: PAYphone-Corey Burke
PAYphone offers a collection of strong, well-routined walkaround effects. Corey Burke does lots of restaurant work and his experience shows in the amazing card and coin routines that he presents and explains. This is an excellent DVD for intermediate to advanced magicians and I’m carrying away a couple of routines that I’m going to incorporate into my own table hopping.
PAYphone offers a collection of strong, well-routined walkaround effects. Corey Burke does lots of restaurant work and his experience shows in the amazing card and coin routines that he presents and explains. This is an excellent DVD for intermediate to advanced magicians and I’m carrying away a couple of routines that I’m going to incorporate into my own table hopping.
Review: Bicycle Red Gaff Deck
Ellusionist.com's "Bicycle Red Gaff Deck" offers an intriguing and comprehensive collection of gaffed playing cards that you can use with a normal red Bicycle deck. Some are well known standards and the deck goes far beyond with amazing and visual variations that will spark your imagination and dress-up your card effects.
Ellusionist.com's "Bicycle Red Gaff Deck" offers an intriguing and comprehensive collection of gaffed playing cards that you can use with a normal red Bicycle deck. Some are well known standards and the deck goes far beyond with amazing and visual variations that will spark your imagination and dress-up your card effects.
Trick Review: Third Degree Burn
Third Degree Burn, by Jason Palter, is a mysterious and versatile blister effect. You walk up to a spectator and ask them to name a card. You bring out a lighter and light it. After reaching into the flame, you show that your thumb and first finger have blisters in the shape of the freely named card.
Third Degree Burn, by Jason Palter, is a mysterious and versatile blister effect. You walk up to a spectator and ask them to name a card. You bring out a lighter and light it. After reaching into the flame, you show that your thumb and first finger have blisters in the shape of the freely named card.
DVD Review: Magic Under Fire by Harry Robson
Harry Robson’s "Magic Under Fire" is refreshing because he talks about performing strolling magic under demanding conditions. This experienced worker is not afraid to show himself in situations where spectators are distracted and even walk away. But this is the reality of performing for adult crowds. Robson offers his favorite routines, most of them involving cards and serves advice.
Harry Robson’s "Magic Under Fire" is refreshing because he talks about performing strolling magic under demanding conditions. This experienced worker is not afraid to show himself in situations where spectators are distracted and even walk away. But this is the reality of performing for adult crowds. Robson offers his favorite routines, most of them involving cards and serves advice.
Trick Review: Far Sight by Devin Knight
In "Far Sight," a card-based mentalism effect, a performer can stand away from a set of cards so he can’t see them and allow a spectator to freely choose one card and cover the others. In the end, the performer correctly predicts the selected card. This one is good and will fry magicians who may be the best spectators for it.
In "Far Sight," a card-based mentalism effect, a performer can stand away from a set of cards so he can’t see them and allow a spectator to freely choose one card and cover the others. In the end, the performer correctly predicts the selected card. This one is good and will fry magicians who may be the best spectators for it.
DVD Review: Incredible Self-Working Card Tricks Vol 5
Now with a fifth volume, Michael Maxwell offers another set of "self-working card tricks" that require no sleight-of-hand or skill with cards. This DVD is good for beginners and comes with some decent effects and a couple of no-sleight variations on card classics.
Now with a fifth volume, Michael Maxwell offers another set of "self-working card tricks" that require no sleight-of-hand or skill with cards. This DVD is good for beginners and comes with some decent effects and a couple of no-sleight variations on card classics.
Trick Review: Sudden Deck II
In “Sudden Deck II,” David Regal provides an entertaining way to magically produce a deck of cards. The magician walks out with a couple of pieces of white cardboard. With a snap of the fingers, one of the pieces instantly “prints” itself to resemble a Bicycle-brand card case. The magician folds the cardboard into the shape of a box and then removes a regular deck of cards.
In “Sudden Deck II,” David Regal provides an entertaining way to magically produce a deck of cards. The magician walks out with a couple of pieces of white cardboard. With a snap of the fingers, one of the pieces instantly “prints” itself to resemble a Bicycle-brand card case. The magician folds the cardboard into the shape of a box and then removes a regular deck of cards.
Book Review: Power Plays-Mike Powers
In "Power Plays," Mike Powers offers an excellent and comprehensive collection of close-up effects that use cards, coins, bills, rings, rubber bands, straws and more-some 58 effects in all. While the emphasis is on cards, Powers has created and compiled an impressive assortment of tricks that are visual, commercial and stunning. Don’t miss this one.
In "Power Plays," Mike Powers offers an excellent and comprehensive collection of close-up effects that use cards, coins, bills, rings, rubber bands, straws and more-some 58 effects in all. While the emphasis is on cards, Powers has created and compiled an impressive assortment of tricks that are visual, commercial and stunning. Don’t miss this one.
DVD Review: Classic Carney
This version of John Carney’s excellent instructional video on DVD offers some solid close-up effects. The strongest are the three-phase card in napkin routine, a fun triumph style effect and an outstanding cups and balls effect that’s blended with classic bill in lemon.
This version of John Carney’s excellent instructional video on DVD offers some solid close-up effects. The strongest are the three-phase card in napkin routine, a fun triumph style effect and an outstanding cups and balls effect that’s blended with classic bill in lemon.
Review: Bicycle Masters Edition
For card handlers, a fresh new deck that is worked in just right is one of life’s pleasures. And if you’re lucky enough to own Ellusionist’s Bicycle Masters Edition, a high-end Bicycle deck that’s printed by the United States Playing Card Company, you’re working with the best quality deck that’s probably out there. And its stunning, redesigned Ace of Spades adds icing to the cake.
For card handlers, a fresh new deck that is worked in just right is one of life’s pleasures. And if you’re lucky enough to own Ellusionist’s Bicycle Masters Edition, a high-end Bicycle deck that’s printed by the United States Playing Card Company, you’re working with the best quality deck that’s probably out there. And its stunning, redesigned Ace of Spades adds icing to the cake.
DVD Review: Double Signed Card-Richard Turner
A combination of raw talent, extreme dedication and an engaging stage presence, Richard Turner is a Jedi master with cards. With the addition of a second spectator and second signed card of a different color, Turner elevates the signed card routine to new heights. It’s a signed card on steroids. If such a high level routine interests you, you’ll enjoy this DVD.
A combination of raw talent, extreme dedication and an engaging stage presence, Richard Turner is a Jedi master with cards. With the addition of a second spectator and second signed card of a different color, Turner elevates the signed card routine to new heights. It’s a signed card on steroids. If such a high level routine interests you, you’ll enjoy this DVD.
DVD Review: Close-Up Magic-Andrew Normansell
As the title implies, Andrew Normansell’s 100% Commercial Volume 3 - Close-Up Magic DVD offers a good selection of close-up effects. Actually, a more descriptive title for this DVD would have been “Close-Up Card Magic.” The solid cardeffects that Normansell presents here offer lots of opportunities to interact with spectators and are not difficult to learn and perform.
As the title implies, Andrew Normansell’s 100% Commercial Volume 3 - Close-Up Magic DVD offers a good selection of close-up effects. Actually, a more descriptive title for this DVD would have been “Close-Up Card Magic.” The solid cardeffects that Normansell presents here offer lots of opportunities to interact with spectators and are not difficult to learn and perform.
Book Review: Devious Deceptions by Steve Skomp
The aptly named Devious Deceptions, a 65-page, comb-bound book, offers a wealth of varied, visual and entertaining effects-mostly of the close-up variety. This collection of winners, from the diabolical mentalism gaff, to the instantaneous deck changes-decks change sizes and into other objects, offers something for just about every magician.
The aptly named Devious Deceptions, a 65-page, comb-bound book, offers a wealth of varied, visual and entertaining effects-mostly of the close-up variety. This collection of winners, from the diabolical mentalism gaff, to the instantaneous deck changes-decks change sizes and into other objects, offers something for just about every magician.
Trick Review: Ripped-Up by Peter Egglink
There are various methods to appear to tear apart a playing card and restore it, and Peter Egglink's Ripped-Up offers a different, gimmick-based approach that allows you to seemingly tear apart a signed card and instantly fuse it back together. The effect requires no palming and almost instantly resets, and is within the means of anyone who has mastered card basics.
There are various methods to appear to tear apart a playing card and restore it, and Peter Egglink's Ripped-Up offers a different, gimmick-based approach that allows you to seemingly tear apart a signed card and instantly fuse it back together. The effect requires no palming and almost instantly resets, and is within the means of anyone who has mastered card basics.
DVD Review: Miracles from the Sock Drawer
On this comprehensive DVD, Paul Gallagher shares an amazing wealth of ideas, applications, subtleties, insight and routines for standard effects that many magicians have purchased and thrown into their sock or junk drawers. With some 50 effects, routines, presentation tips, and performance applications and some five hours of footage, this is a great DVD.
On this comprehensive DVD, Paul Gallagher shares an amazing wealth of ideas, applications, subtleties, insight and routines for standard effects that many magicians have purchased and thrown into their sock or junk drawers. With some 50 effects, routines, presentation tips, and performance applications and some five hours of footage, this is a great DVD.
Trick Review: Heatwave, by Peter Eggink
A chosen card appears to “melt” in front of spectators’ eyes. Peter Eggink’s Heatwave offers a different and visual card trick that employs a lighter and is sure to draw attention. And the melted card at the trick’s apex is something that spectators are not expecting.
A chosen card appears to “melt” in front of spectators’ eyes. Peter Eggink’s Heatwave offers a different and visual card trick that employs a lighter and is sure to draw attention. And the melted card at the trick’s apex is something that spectators are not expecting.
DVD Review: Official Poker Flourishes DVD-Vol 1
On this DVD, Rich Ferguson offers excellent instruction to teach basic card flourishes that include: springs, fans, waterfalls and spreads. Beginning magicians can learn a lot here. And the flashy moves will add visual interest to their card sets.
On this DVD, Rich Ferguson offers excellent instruction to teach basic card flourishes that include: springs, fans, waterfalls and spreads. Beginning magicians can learn a lot here. And the flashy moves will add visual interest to their card sets.
DVD Review: Andrew Normansell 100% Commercial - Comedy Stand-Up
Andrew Normansell’s comedy DVD offers a strong selection of commercial stage effects. This DVD does not present an act, but several routines that are largely weighted towards cards. Normansell has an engaging stage presence and the effects he presents here offer lots of opportunities to interact with spectators and are not difficult to perform.
Andrew Normansell’s comedy DVD offers a strong selection of commercial stage effects. This DVD does not present an act, but several routines that are largely weighted towards cards. Normansell has an engaging stage presence and the effects he presents here offer lots of opportunities to interact with spectators and are not difficult to perform.
Trick Review: The Tim Card Poker Deal
Tim Ellis delivers a winner with his Tim Card Poker Deal, a poker-style effect where the magician plays three hands of poker against a spectator and always loses the first two hands and wins the last. The spectator seemingly makes the choices. It’s an easy effect that is great for beginners, offers lots of opportunity to interact with spectators and is strong enough to work in a walk-around set.
Tim Ellis delivers a winner with his Tim Card Poker Deal, a poker-style effect where the magician plays three hands of poker against a spectator and always loses the first two hands and wins the last. The spectator seemingly makes the choices. It’s an easy effect that is great for beginners, offers lots of opportunity to interact with spectators and is strong enough to work in a walk-around set.
Book Review: Bill Goldman’s Magic Bar and Grill
"Magic Bar and Grill" was Bill Goldman’s ten-issue newsletter that was published over a period of nine years. It was a creative and well received outlet for Goldman's ideas, presentations, methods, opinions and more. This book brings together all ten issues. While it’s somewhat quirky, there are some definite gems to be found within.
"Magic Bar and Grill" was Bill Goldman’s ten-issue newsletter that was published over a period of nine years. It was a creative and well received outlet for Goldman's ideas, presentations, methods, opinions and more. This book brings together all ten issues. While it’s somewhat quirky, there are some definite gems to be found within.
DVD Review: Captured! The Outlaw Magic of Lonnie Chevrie Volume II
In the second volume of his “Outlaw Magic” series, Lonnie Chevrie tips four solid close-up effects that are visual and only require fundamental sleight-of-hand skills. If the effects sound as if they’ll fit in your walk-around or close-up sets, the DVD is worth the look.
In the second volume of his “Outlaw Magic” series, Lonnie Chevrie tips four solid close-up effects that are visual and only require fundamental sleight-of-hand skills. If the effects sound as if they’ll fit in your walk-around or close-up sets, the DVD is worth the look.
The Official Poker Shuffles & Cuts DVD-Volume 1
Geared towards poker and card players who want to show off, The Official Poker Shuffles & Cuts DVD-Volume 1 teaches a comprehensive collection of cuts and shuffles, both basic and advanced that magicians can add to their repertoires. For beginners, there’s a wealth of material that will keep them busy for months.
Geared towards poker and card players who want to show off, The Official Poker Shuffles & Cuts DVD-Volume 1 teaches a comprehensive collection of cuts and shuffles, both basic and advanced that magicians can add to their repertoires. For beginners, there’s a wealth of material that will keep them busy for months.
DVD Review: 24 Years of Living Next Door to Ellis
Tim Ellis and Sue-Anne Webster offer a brilliant, hilarious and entertaining DVD that’s filled with first rate, commercial effects. The premise here is that a nosy neighbor, played by Webster, is constantly spying on Ellis in his home and figuring out and explaining his tricks. It’s loads of zany fun and Ellis and Webster often make the explanations as entertaining as the tricks.
Tim Ellis and Sue-Anne Webster offer a brilliant, hilarious and entertaining DVD that’s filled with first rate, commercial effects. The premise here is that a nosy neighbor, played by Webster, is constantly spying on Ellis in his home and figuring out and explaining his tricks. It’s loads of zany fun and Ellis and Webster often make the explanations as entertaining as the tricks.
DVD Review: Xtreme Beginnerz
If you want to learn flashy card flourishes to dress up your magic routines or establish a foundation in xtreme card manipulation (XCM), Ellusionist’s latest DVD, Xtreme Beginnerz, offers an excellent teaching tool. This two-DVD set offers hours of first rate instruction and tips from experts De’vo, Jerry Cestkowski and other pros.
If you want to learn flashy card flourishes to dress up your magic routines or establish a foundation in xtreme card manipulation (XCM), Ellusionist’s latest DVD, Xtreme Beginnerz, offers an excellent teaching tool. This two-DVD set offers hours of first rate instruction and tips from experts De’vo, Jerry Cestkowski and other pros.
Trick Review: Daryl’s Ultra-Monte
If you’ve always wanted to perform Three-Card Monte but found the sleight-of-hand daunting, Daryl’s excellent Ultra-Monte offers a relatively easy, gimmicked-based version. And in addition to being a great trick, Daryl provides excellent instruction with both a DVD and written text.
If you’ve always wanted to perform Three-Card Monte but found the sleight-of-hand daunting, Daryl’s excellent Ultra-Monte offers a relatively easy, gimmicked-based version. And in addition to being a great trick, Daryl provides excellent instruction with both a DVD and written text.
DVD Review: Wanted! The Outlaw Magic of Lonnie Chevrie: Volume 1
The Texas outlaw magician, Lonnie Chevrie, tips some first rate, commercial close-up routines on his DVD, “Wanted! The Outlaw Magic of Lonnie Chevrie: Volume 1.” The five effects are not difficult to learn and perform, and one is strong and absurdly easy. Those who are developing and building close-up material can find lots to like here.
The Texas outlaw magician, Lonnie Chevrie, tips some first rate, commercial close-up routines on his DVD, “Wanted! The Outlaw Magic of Lonnie Chevrie: Volume 1.” The five effects are not difficult to learn and perform, and one is strong and absurdly easy. Those who are developing and building close-up material can find lots to like here.
Book Review: “Up in Smoke” - Larry Jennings
Offering a treasure trove of powerful card effects, Bill Goodwin’s “Up in Smoke” resurrects Larry Jennings’ earlier book of the same name. Goodwin has completely rewritten the book’s 12 effects, added photos where none existed before and includes two new effects. The title offers excellent instruction and some great card routines.
Offering a treasure trove of powerful card effects, Bill Goodwin’s “Up in Smoke” resurrects Larry Jennings’ earlier book of the same name. Goodwin has completely rewritten the book’s 12 effects, added photos where none existed before and includes two new effects. The title offers excellent instruction and some great card routines.
DVD Review: Official Poker Card Stunts DVD
Rich Ferguson’s “The Official Poker Card Stunts DVD” teaches a wide range of card techniques to switch cards, reveal and deal cards in flashy ways, throw cards and execute flourishes. While there are no actual tricks, magicians should find many of the moves useful. It’s a first rate DVD that provides excellent instruction.
Rich Ferguson’s “The Official Poker Card Stunts DVD” teaches a wide range of card techniques to switch cards, reveal and deal cards in flashy ways, throw cards and execute flourishes. While there are no actual tricks, magicians should find many of the moves useful. It’s a first rate DVD that provides excellent instruction.
Trick Review: Presto Printo
Another excellent effect in Daryl’s Fooler Doolers series, “Presto Printo” offers a variation on “Wild Card” where a series of blank cards take on the image of a freely chosen card. The trick is entertaining, plays well and is easy to learn and perform. I wasn’t sure about this one, but was pleasantly surprised at the positive response it received from my close-up audiences.
Another excellent effect in Daryl’s Fooler Doolers series, “Presto Printo” offers a variation on “Wild Card” where a series of blank cards take on the image of a freely chosen card. The trick is entertaining, plays well and is easy to learn and perform. I wasn’t sure about this one, but was pleasantly surprised at the positive response it received from my close-up audiences.
Trick Review: Tony Clark’s Clever Card Rise
Tony Clark’s version of the rising card effect is inexpensive and easy-to-use. It’s a first rate way to perform a stunning classic.
Tony Clark’s version of the rising card effect is inexpensive and easy-to-use. It’s a first rate way to perform a stunning classic.
Review: Ghost Deck
With a strikingly different look, Ellusionist.com’s gorgeous new Ghost Deck offers a black & white Bicycle-style deck that makes spectators sit up and notice. If you want cards with a different look that can lend to your atmosphere and effects, you won’t go wrong with the high quality Ghost Deck.
With a strikingly different look, Ellusionist.com’s gorgeous new Ghost Deck offers a black & white Bicycle-style deck that makes spectators sit up and notice. If you want cards with a different look that can lend to your atmosphere and effects, you won’t go wrong with the high quality Ghost Deck.
Review: Shapeshifter DVD
On this Ellusionist.com DVD, Marc DeSouza teaches his amazing Shapeshifter color card change. It’s the most visual color change that I’ve seen.
On this Ellusionist.com DVD, Marc DeSouza teaches his amazing Shapeshifter color card change. It’s the most visual color change that I’ve seen.
Review: Black Tiger Deck, Gaff Deck & Black Book
Imagine a deck of high-quality Bicycle playing cards that has been reversed and you have the striking Black Tiger Deck. And to complement the deck, there's a Gaff Deck with 56 gimmicked cards, as well as an accompanying book that describes and teaches effects. It’s a whole new world of entertaining, edgy and spooky card magic.
Imagine a deck of high-quality Bicycle playing cards that has been reversed and you have the striking Black Tiger Deck. And to complement the deck, there's a Gaff Deck with 56 gimmicked cards, as well as an accompanying book that describes and teaches effects. It’s a whole new world of entertaining, edgy and spooky card magic.
DVD Review: Nathan Gibson The Pasteboard Player
Nathan Gibson The Pasteboard Player offers four strong card effects and two flashy flourishes. Intermediate to semi-advanced card workers should find lots to like on this DVD. Gibson is an 18-year-old wonder worker who has won some 17 close-up magic contests, including that of the 2004 World Magic Seminar in Las Vegas.
Nathan Gibson The Pasteboard Player offers four strong card effects and two flashy flourishes. Intermediate to semi-advanced card workers should find lots to like on this DVD. Gibson is an 18-year-old wonder worker who has won some 17 close-up magic contests, including that of the 2004 World Magic Seminar in Las Vegas.
DVD Review: Weapons of the Card Shark
If you’ve always wanted to learn card gambling techniques, Jeff Wessmiller and his DVD, Weapons of the Card Shark, shows how to muck, stack, deal bottoms and more. It’s a comprehensive DVD that is not only entertaining to watch, but will teach you some new moves (for entertainment purposes only, of course).
If you’ve always wanted to learn card gambling techniques, Jeff Wessmiller and his DVD, Weapons of the Card Shark, shows how to muck, stack, deal bottoms and more. It’s a comprehensive DVD that is not only entertaining to watch, but will teach you some new moves (for entertainment purposes only, of course).
DVD Review: Pockets Full of Miracles
Diamond Jim Tyler’s “Pockets Full of Miracles” is a first rate DVD filled with entertaining, commercial effects. Diamond Jim is a true worker, and his experience and creativity are apparent in the DVD’s many amusing and bewildering effects.
Diamond Jim Tyler’s “Pockets Full of Miracles” is a first rate DVD filled with entertaining, commercial effects. Diamond Jim is a true worker, and his experience and creativity are apparent in the DVD’s many amusing and bewildering effects.
Review: Shapeshifter DVD
On this Ellusionist.com DVD, Marc DeSouza teaches his amazing Shapeshifter color card change. It’s the most visual color change that I’ve seen.
On this Ellusionist.com DVD, Marc DeSouza teaches his amazing Shapeshifter color card change. It’s the most visual color change that I’ve seen.
DVD Review: Miracles for Mortals Vol. 1, Geoff Williams
I had never before heard of Geoff Williams, but after reviewing his DVD, I’m throughly pleased to have discovered his work. This DVD presents some excellent and varied close-up and stand-up effects along with solid advice. There’s lots to like here.
I had never before heard of Geoff Williams, but after reviewing his DVD, I’m throughly pleased to have discovered his work. This DVD presents some excellent and varied close-up and stand-up effects along with solid advice. There’s lots to like here.
Book Review: On The Other Side Of The Mirror
Can you improve your card tricks by applying entertaining themes and stories? Cushing Strout’s "On The Other Side Of The Mirror" successfully dresses-up well-known card tricks with themes that are based on astrology, murder mysteries, lie detection, fortune telling and more. His plots indeed make the card tricks more entertaining, but the effects are limited to those that rely on stacked decks.
Can you improve your card tricks by applying entertaining themes and stories? Cushing Strout’s "On The Other Side Of The Mirror" successfully dresses-up well-known card tricks with themes that are based on astrology, murder mysteries, lie detection, fortune telling and more. His plots indeed make the card tricks more entertaining, but the effects are limited to those that rely on stacked decks.