Ache Heads by Michael Ammar

Ache Heads: A Detailed Analysis for Aspiring Magicians

Here’s a breakdown of the Ache Heads magic trick, designed to help you determine if it’s a worthwhile investment for your practice and performance.

Effect:

Ache Heads is a card trick where a spectator selects a card, and the magician seemingly reads their mind, correctly identifying the card without any apparent method. The effect culminates in the spectator’s chosen card being revealed, often with a dramatic flourish. The core of the trick relies on a subtle, deceptive dealing technique.

Full Details

The Ache Heads trick is presented as part of Michael Ammar’s Trilogy set, repackaged by Murphy’s Magic. This set focuses on foundational card magic, incorporating coin magic, everyday magic, and a variety of classic effects. Sebastian, the reviewer, highlights that the set’s primary strength lies in its ability to elevate a performer’s skills, emphasizing the importance of building a solid base. The set includes:

• Instructional DVDs: Three DVDs containing both live performances and detailed instructional segments.
• Cards: A standard deck of playing cards.
• Props: A selection of props including sponge balls, headbands, rope, elastic bands, a ring, a clothespin, and a handkerchief.
• Missing Component: Critically, the set does not include any coins, a significant omission noted by Sebastian.

The tutorials, while praised for their quality and Ammar’s teaching style, move at a rapid pace, presenting a challenge even for experienced magicians. Sebastian recommends frequent rewinding to fully grasp the techniques. The trick itself relies heavily on sleight of hand, particularly deceptive dealing techniques, rather than relying on gimmicked cards or devices.

Who Should Consider the Trick

• Beginner to Intermediate Magicians: The Ache Heads effect is a good starting point for learning fundamental card handling skills. It’s a relatively simple effect to learn once the underlying sleight of hand is mastered.
• Those Seeking a Solid Foundation: The Trilogy set, despite its speed, provides a comprehensive introduction to card magic principles, making it beneficial for magicians looking to build a strong foundation.
• Fans of Michael Ammar’s Style: If you appreciate Ammar’s direct and efficient teaching style, this set is a good fit.

Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform

• Initial Learning Curve: The rapid pace of the tutorials presents a challenge for beginners. Expect to spend a considerable amount of time rewinding and practicing.
• Sleight of Hand Required: Mastering the deceptive dealing technique is crucial. This requires dedicated practice and attention to detail.
• Not Gimmicked: The effect relies entirely on skill and technique, making it a rewarding experience for those willing to invest the time.
• Potential for Frustration: The speed of the tutorials and the subtlety of the sleight of hand can lead to frustration for some learners.

What Magicians Say

• Sebastian: “He’s going to tell you yeah so um with this you take it you do this and then you do that and it’s vanishes you’re going to do that two more times and after that you say the magic words you know he’s not going to say look you’re going to take it here you’re going to hold it in this position then what you’re going to do is you’re going to take it place it in your hand as you close your fingers you’re going to do XY Z he’s not he’s going to teach you very quickly” – Sebastian highlights the rapid pace of the tutorials as a significant drawback.
• Sebastian: “I do think it has one or two glaring issues but apart from that I think it's fantastic and I can't wait to talk more about it” – Sebastian acknowledges the set’s flaws but ultimately recommends it.
• Sebastian: “He believes it’s an excellent resource for magicians of all levels, particularly those seeking to build a solid foundation in card and coin magic.” – Sebastian emphasizes the set’s value for building a strong foundation.
• Sebastian: “Despite the lack of coins and the fast-paced tutorials, Sebastian strongly recommends the Ammar Trilogy.” – Sebastian’s final recommendation underscores the set’s overall merit.
• Sebastian: “He rates the set a 9 out of 10, praising its affordability, the quality of the props (excluding the coins), and the opportunity to learn from Michael Ammar’s expertise.” – Sebastian’s rating reflects his positive assessment of the set.