Sleightful logoSleightful

3 by AlakazamMagicUK and BigBlindMedia

Created by: AlakazamMagicUK, BigBlindMedia

This card trick, dubbed ‘3’, centers around a specially prepared deck where the cards subtly shift values when manipulated. The trick begins with a seemingly straightforward sequence – the Ace, 2, 3, 4, and 5 of Diamonds – but quickly evolves into a series of surprising transformations. Key effects include card cycling (Ace to 2, 2 to 3, etc.) triggered by a clap, an ‘Elevator Effect’ where cards rise from beneath, a ‘Mystic Pass’ that causes a card to jump to the top, and the ‘Magic Number’ three, which triggers any card to rise when placed upon it. It’s a visually engaging trick that relies heavily on presentation and misdirection.

Where to buy

3 by Patricio Teran video DOWNLOAD from Alakazam Magic
Alakazam Magic3 by Patricio Teran video DOWNLOAD£13.06
🇬🇧
Shop

Key features

  • Specially prepared deck of cards

  • Card cycling via hand clap

  • Elevator Effect (cards rising)

  • Mystic Pass (card jumping)

  • ‘Magic Number’ three (any card rises when placed on it)

  • Emphasis on presentation and misdirection

Pros

  • Visually stunning transformations

  • Engaging and entertaining for audiences

  • Relatively easy to learn and perform with practice

Cons

  • Requires a specially prepared deck (additional cost)

  • Method is not revealed, limiting potential for deeper understanding

  • Success relies heavily on performance and misdirection

Analysis of the “3” Card Trick

This document provides a detailed breakdown of the “3” card trick, designed to assist magicians in evaluating its suitability for their repertoire. It synthesizes information from multiple reviews to offer a comprehensive understanding of the effect, its mechanics, and the skills required for successful performance.

Effect: A Dynamic Card Transformation

The “3” card trick presents a visually arresting sequence of card transformations. To the audience, it appears as a series of seemingly impossible shifts – a card rising from beneath others, a card jumping to the top of the deck, and ultimately, a collection of matching cards emerging from a randomized display. The core of the effect is a dynamic rearrangement of the deck’s cards, creating a sense of controlled chaos and magical surprise. The trick culminates in the revelation of three matching cards, a satisfying and memorable conclusion.

Full Details

The trick’s foundation rests on a specially prepared deck of cards. This isn’t a standard deck; it’s designed to react to specific manipulations. As BigBlindMedia notes, “The trick revolves around a deck where the cards are printed in a way that allows them to change their values when manipulated.” AlakazamMagicUK highlights this, stating, “The trick uses a specially prepared deck of cards.”

The performance unfolds in distinct phases:

  • Initial Setup: The magician begins with a display of cards – typically the Ace, 2, 3, 4, and 5 of Diamonds. This establishes the initial sequence and provides a visual anchor for the transformations.
  • Card Cycling: Through a series of claps and gestures, the cards cycle through their values. A clap triggers a shift, moving the Ace to the position of the 2, the 2 to the position of the 3, and so on. As BigBlindMedia describes, “With a simple gesture (a clap of the hands), the cards cycle through their values, seemingly changing from Ace to 2, 2 to 3, and so on.”
  • Elevator Effect: Cards are strategically placed underneath other cards. A gesture, often a shadow or a hand movement, causes them to “rise” to the top, mimicking an elevator. “The Ace and 2 cards are placed underneath other cards in the sequence, and they magically rise to the top.”
  • Mystic Pass: A specific manipulation, termed the “Mystic Pass,” causes a chosen card (typically the 3) to jump to the top of the deck. “A similar effect is achieved with the 3, where a 'Mystic pass' causes it to jump to the top of the deck.”
  • The “Magic Number” Three: The number three is presented as a key element. Dropping a card onto the 3 triggers its immediate ascent to the top. “The creator highlights the number three as a 'magic number,' demonstrating how dropping any card onto the 3 causes it to rise to the top.”

    • Who Should Consider the Trick

    This trick is well-suited for magicians who enjoy visually engaging effects and are comfortable with a degree of theatrical presentation. AlakazamMagicUK’s observation that the trick is “easy to follow and visually engaging” suggests it’s accessible to performers with moderate experience. However, the reliance on a specialized deck and the need for precise execution, particularly during the transformations, mean it’s not ideal for beginners. BigBlindMedia’s emphasis on “presentation and misdirection” indicates that a confident and engaging delivery is crucial for maximizing the illusion’s impact. The trick’s appeal lies in its dynamic nature and the “wow” factor of the card movements, making it suitable for a variety of performance settings.

    Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform

    The trick’s difficulty lies primarily in mastering the execution of the card manipulations. AlakazamMagicUK notes that “Practice is needed for smooth execution, especially for the final transformation.” The precise timing and coordination required for the claps, gestures, and card placements are critical. The “Mystic Pass” and the “Elevator Effect” require careful attention to detail. The reliance on a specially prepared deck adds a layer of complexity, as the magician must become familiar with the deck’s unique properties. While the underlying principles are relatively straightforward, achieving a polished and seamless performance demands consistent practice and a keen understanding of the mechanics.

    What Magicians Say

    • AlakazamMagicUK: “Practice is needed for smooth execution, especially for the final transformation.” This highlights the importance of diligent rehearsal.
    • BigBlindMedia: “The creator emphasizes the importance of presentation and misdirection, using gestures and patter to enhance the illusion.” This underscores the crucial role of performance style and audience engagement.
    • BigBlindMedia: “The trick uses a specially prepared deck of cards.” This confirms the necessity of the unique deck for the effect to function.
    • BigBlindMedia: “The 'clap' action is a key element, likely triggering a visual shift in the card design.” This points to a specific, potentially subtle, mechanism within the deck.
    • BigBlindMedia: “The 'Mystic pass' is presented as a theatrical flourish, adding to the mystery.” This emphasizes the importance of incorporating a dramatic element into the presentation.

    What people are saying about 3

    AlakazamMagicUK says...

    Practice is needed for smooth execution, especially for the final transformation.

    BigBlindMedia says...

    The trick relies on a specially printed deck. The creator emphasizes the importance of presentation and misdirection, using gestures and patter to enhance the illusion.

    Performance videos

    Tutorial videos