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Black Jacks by Henry Christ

Created by: Henry Christ

Mathematical Blackjacks is a captivating close-up card trick that utilizes two specially designed Black Jacks from the Theory 11 Silver Art deck. The trick involves spectators selecting numbers, with the difference between these numbers revealing the positions of the Black Jacks within the deck. The shiny backs of the deck add to the visual appeal, making it not just a trick but a visually stunning performance. Ideal for magicians looking to add a mathematically intriguing and visually appealing trick to their repertoire.

Key features

  • Utilizes two specially designed Black Jacks for a unique visual and mathematical trick

  • Involves spectator participation to enhance engagement and perceived randomness

  • Requires basic card handling skills, making it accessible to beginners

  • The shiny backs of the Theory 11 Silver Art deck add to the trick's visual appeal

  • Storytelling and presentation are key to maximizing the trick's impact

Pros

  • Beginner-friendly with a strong foundation in mathematical principles

  • High visual appeal due to the special deck used

  • Engages spectators directly, making performances more interactive and memorable

  • Flexible in presentation, allowing for personal storytelling and style

Cons

  • Requires the specific Black Jacks from the Theory 11 Silver Art deck, which may not be readily available to everyone

  • Success heavily relies on the performer's ability to engage the audience and tell a compelling story

Effect

The trick "Black Jacks" creates the illusion that two specially designed Black Jacks (Jack of Spades and Jack of Clubs) are lost in a shuffled deck. Spectators choose two numbers, and through a mathematical principle, the difference between those numbers reveals the exact positions of the hidden Jacks. The magician emphasizes the historical and mathematical significance of the Jacks, making the reveal feel impossible yet logical.

Full Details

The trick uses two Black Jacks from the Theory 11 Silver Art deck, which feature unique imagery (an hourglass and a measuring stick) tied to mathematical symbolism. The magician controls the Jacks during shuffles, keeping them on top or separating them into two piles. Spectators select numbers, and after counting cards, the difference between their numbers leads to the Jacks' discovery.

Key techniques include:

  • Maintaining the Jacks: Using a thumb jog or false shuffle to keep the Jacks in position.
  • Slip Cut: A subtle move to separate the Jacks into different piles.
  • Spectator Involvement: Having spectators count cards increases engagement.
  • Mathematical Principle: The difference between the two selected numbers determines where the Jacks appear.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick suits beginners and experienced magicians. Beginners benefit from its simple mechanics, while experienced performers can enhance it with storytelling and advanced shuffling techniques. It works well for close-up or casual performances where audience interaction is key.

Difficulty

The trick is easy to learn but requires smooth handling for maximum impact. Basic card control (like false shuffles) helps, but even without advanced skills, the effect remains strong. The hardest part is maintaining naturalness while controlling the Jacks.

What Magicians Say

CardMechanic highlights the trick’s simplicity and strong audience reaction:

  • "It’s truly something that anyone can do with almost no practice."
  • "The story of these two Black Jacks makes people more invested in the effect."

He also notes the importance of presentation:

  • "Even a beginner magician can fool their audience with careful handling and engaging storytelling."

The shiny backs of the Theory 11 deck add visual appeal, making the trick more striking. Overall, "Black Jacks" is praised as a clean, mathematically intriguing trick that works well with minimal setup.

What people are saying about Black Jacks

CardMechanic says...

What I love about this trick is it revolves around the story of these two blackjacks and I think that's really going to be very vital to to have people more invested in this whole effect [...] The shiny backs of the Theory 11 Silver Art deck add to the visual appeal of the trick.

Tutorial videos