Big Reaction by Andy Nyman

Created by: Andy Nyman

Big Reaction by Andy Nyman is a high-impact card trick that has been a favorite since its 2011 release. In this trick, a spectator freely names any card, and the magician reveals that the entire deck says 'Boo' except for the selected one. This psychological or prediction-based effect is designed to generate strong audience responses, making it perfect for close-up, stand-up, or stage magic. The updated version features custom-printed cards, enhancing the trick's presentation and making it even easier to perform. It's ideal for openers or closers in mix-and-mingle or table settings, though it requires a specific deck setup, which might limit impromptu use.

Key features

High-impact visual magic with minimal technical demand
Ideal for close-up gigs, restaurant magic, or trade shows
Custom-printed cards enhance presentation
No force or equivocation—spectator names any card
Instant reset and easy to perform
Works seamlessly for close-up, stand-up, or stage magic

Pros

Strong audience impact
Easy to perform
Instant reset
Custom-printed cards enhance presentation
Versatile for various performance settings

Cons

Requires a specific deck setup, limiting impromptu use
Previous limited availability was a minor issue

Effect

In Big Reaction, a spectator freely names any playing card. The magician then reveals that every card in the deck has the word "Boo" printed on it—except the spectator's chosen card. The moment creates a strong visual surprise and a memorable reaction from the audience.

Full details

Big Reaction is a card trick designed by Andy Nyman. It requires no sleight of hand and uses a custom-printed deck where all cards except one appear identical. The spectator can name any card, and the magician instantly proves that only their selection is different. The trick resets immediately, making it repeatable in the same performance. It works for close-up, stand-up, or stage settings.

Who should consider the trick

This trick suits magicians who want a high-impact, easy-to-perform routine. It is ideal for:

Beginners looking for a strong opener or closer.
Professionals who need reliable material for gigs.
Performers who prefer self-working or gimmick-based tricks.
Those working in restaurants, trade shows, or mix-and-mingle events.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

Big Reaction is simple to perform. It requires no advanced sleight of hand, making it accessible to magicians of all skill levels. The custom-printed deck ensures the method is foolproof. The only setup needed is using the provided deck, so it is not impromptu.

What magicians say

Craig Petty calls it a "staple in his gigs" and praises its strong impact and ease of use.
Harry Nardi includes it in his desert island picks, highlighting its ability to generate cheers.
AlakazamMagicUK describes it as a "must-have" for its foolproof method and instant reset.
One reviewer notes it works well for large tables and delivers "big reactions effortlessly."

The trick has been popular since its 2011 release, and the updated version with custom-printed cards makes it even easier to perform.

What people are saying about Big Reaction

AlakazamMagicUK says...

Andy Nyman's 'Big Reaction' is a standout magic trick that has been a favorite since its 2011 release. [...] The simplicity and powerful reaction make it a must-have for magicians.

Craig Petty says...

Craig Petty enthusiastically recommends 'Big Reaction' by Andy Nyman and Alakazam Magic. He highlights how the trick has become a staple in his gigs due to its strong impact and ease of performance.

Harry Nardi says...

Big Reaction (a card trick designed for cheers). [...] Each trick is selected for its versatility, audience engagement, and performance value, offering magicians valuable tips for refining their sets.