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*Beyond Fantasy* by Chris Carter

Created by: Chris Carter

Beyond Fantasy is a visually stunning and impromptu card trick that can be performed with any deck of cards at any time. The core of the effect involves locating a spectator's chosen card using a rapid 'reverse' action, creating the illusion of turning a single card face up when, in reality, two cards are turned face down simultaneously. This trick is perfect for close-up magic and relies on simplicity, misdirection, and timing rather than complex sleight of hand.

Key features

  • Impromptu nature allows performance anytime, anywhere with any deck.

  • Relies on the Larry Reverse and bottom control techniques for deception.

  • Emphasizes speed and nonchalant presentation for effectiveness.

  • Does not require complex sleight of hand, making it accessible to a wide range of magicians.

Pros

  • Highly visual and effective.

  • Easy to learn and perform.

  • Versatile and can be adapted to various performance styles.

Cons

  • Requires practice to master the timing and misdirection.

  • The effectiveness heavily relies on the performer's presentation skills.

Effect

The Beyond Fantasy trick, specifically "The Fastest Reverse on Earth," creates the illusion of locating a spectator's chosen card instantly. The magician cuts the deck and rapidly flips a card face up, claiming it is the spectator's selection. After a playful moment of pretending it was too slow, the magician repeats the action, this time revealing the correct card face up in the middle of the deck. The effect is fast, visual, and appears effortless.

Full Details

The trick relies on two key techniques:

  • Bottom Control – The chosen card is secretly moved to the bottom of the deck. Methods like the Marlo Convincing Control, Real Dribble Toss Control, or a simple double undercut can be used.
  • The Larry Reverse – A deceptive move developed by Larry Jennings that turns two cards face down while appearing to flip only one. This switch hides the spectator's card beneath a face-up card before revealing it.

    • The performance involves quick cuts and misdirection to maintain the illusion of randomness. The magician pretends to flip a card face up, then uses the Larry Reverse to secretly switch it with the spectator's card.

    Who Should Consider the Trick

    This trick is ideal for magicians who:

    • Prefer impromptu magic that works with any deck.
    • Enjoy fast, visual effects with minimal setup.
    • Want a deceptive trick that relies on timing and misdirection rather than complex sleights.

    Difficulty

    The trick is rated as moderate in difficulty. While the individual moves (bottom control and the Larry Reverse) are not overly complex, smooth execution requires practice. The key challenge is making the reverse look natural and effortless.

    What Magicians Say

    Chris Carter, the creator, emphasizes the importance of speed and casual presentation. He states, "The goal is to do it nonchalantly... like you're just turning the card over. Don't make it a big deal."

    SeanDevine highlights the trick's deceptive simplicity, noting that "the trick's effectiveness stems from its speed and nonchalant presentation, rather than complex sleight of hand."

    The Larry Reverse is described as the heart of the deception, requiring precise alignment and quick execution. Carter advises practicing until the move feels natural, ensuring the cards appear as one during the turn.

    Overall, magicians appreciate the trick for its strong visual impact and versatility in impromptu settings.

    What people are saying about *Beyond Fantasy*

    SeanDevine says...

    The trick's appeal lies in its impromptu nature. [...] Speed and nonchalant presentation are key to the trick's effectiveness.

    Tutorial videos