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Bank Robbers by Paul Carnazzo and Mental Voyage

Created by: Paul Carnazzo, Mental Voyage

Bank Robbers is a captivating card magic trick that falls under the close-up magic category. It involves a routine where cards are placed into the deck at different locations, and with a magical gesture, the four aces are miraculously collected at the top. This trick is part of the 'Self Starter' product by Mental Voyage, which includes a laminated card with instructions for three card tricks, including Bank Robbers. The spectator reads the instructions aloud, creating the illusion they are performing the magic, while the magician executes the necessary sleights. The set comes with a 24-minute video tutorial by Paul Carnazzo, detailing the tricks and required sleights. The trick requires intermediate-level skill, including a classic pass and palming, and involves a subtle gimmick with a standard playing card.

Key features

  • Part of the 'Self Starter' product, focusing on everyday carry (EDC) magic.

  • Includes a laminated card with instructions for three card tricks, including Bank Robbers.

  • Comes with a 24-minute video tutorial by Paul Carnazzo.

  • Requires intermediate-level skill, including a classic pass and palming.

  • Involves a subtle gimmick with a standard playing card.

  • Designed for portability and can be carried in a wallet or with a deck of cards.

Pros

  • Portable and easy to carry, making it great for impromptu performances.

  • Engages the spectator by having them read the instructions, creating a unique interactive experience.

  • Comes with a comprehensive video tutorial for learning the tricks.

  • Allows for a mini-routine with a clear beginning, middle, and end.

Cons

  • Requires intermediate-level sleight of hand skills, which may not be suitable for beginners.

  • The trick is not entirely self-working; the magician must understand and execute the underlying mechanics.

  • The gimmick, while subtle, requires preparation and may not be immediately obvious to all performers.

Effect

Bank Robbers is a card trick where four selected cards appear to vanish from different parts of the deck, only to reappear together at the top. The magician demonstrates control over the cards in a visually engaging way, making it seem like the cards defy logic by gathering in one place despite being lost in the deck.

Full Details

Bank Robbers is a classic card routine where the four aces (or other selected cards) are placed into different sections of the deck. With a wave or snap of the fingers, they all reappear at the top. The trick relies on sleight of hand, including the classic pass and palming techniques. Some versions use a subtle gimmick involving a standard playing card, but the core method is based on skillful manipulation.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick is best for intermediate-level magicians comfortable with card sleights like the pass and palming. It suits performers who want a structured routine with a clear beginning, middle, and end. Those who enjoy interactive magic where the spectator feels involved will appreciate the presentation possibilities.

Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform

Bank Robbers requires intermediate skill due to the need for precise card control. The classic pass and palming must be executed smoothly to maintain the illusion. While not the hardest trick to learn, it demands practice to perform convincingly. David from Magic Orthodoxy notes that the routine is "very intermediate level" and advises learning the mechanics before relying on any gimmicks.

What Magicians Say

David from Magic Orthodoxy describes Bank Robbers as part of a "fun little EDC" routine, praising its portability and spectator engagement. He emphasizes that while the trick appears self-working, it requires real skill: "You can't just follow the card and the trick happens." He recommends practicing without gimmicks first to ensure a strong performance. The trick is angle-friendly and uses a normal deck, making it practical for real-world conditions.

Bank Robbers is a solid choice for magicians who want a reliable, visually strong card routine with room for creative presentation.

What people are saying about Bank Robbers

David from Magic Orthodoxy says...

The reason why it's called self starter is because it's made to look like some little cheat sheet magicians uh easy easy to do trick [...] you're going to give the card to The Spectator and they're going to be able to read the instructions to you they're going to be able to act like the magician but you're still doing all the Hocus Pocus.

Review videos