Sleightful logoSleightful

Block Push-Off & Double Display by Reid Ferry

Created by: Reid Ferry

The Block Push-Off & Double Display is a close-up card magic trick that offers a visually stunning separation of oil (red) and water (black) cards after they've been mixed by a spectator. This method is part of a broader Oil & Water routine, emphasizing deceptive simplicity and spectator involvement. The trick involves getting a break under three cards after the spectator mixes them, using double turnovers and the KM Move (a subtle steal) to create the illusion of separation. It's designed to be practical and accessible for magicians at various skill levels.

Key features

  • Three original methods for performing Oil & Water with a focus on spectator-handling

  • Emphasis on fairness and spectator involvement to enhance the magic

  • Includes performance tips on timing, angle management, and a two-phase structure

  • Suitable for both beginners and advanced magicians

  • The Spectator’s Hands Finale is highlighted as particularly deceptive and effective

Pros

  • Clean and deceptive methods

  • High level of spectator involvement

  • Suitable for a wide range of skill levels

  • Practical and versatile for performances

Cons

  • Some methods may not be as clean as others

  • Requires practice to master the subtleties

Effect

The Block Push-Off & Double Display is a method for performing the classic Oil & Water routine, where red and black cards appear to mix and then separate magically. The effect is clean and visual, with the spectator handling the cards and seeing them mix before the magician reveals they have separated on their own.

Full Details

This method involves the spectator mixing the cards, after which the magician gets a break under three cards. The routine uses double turnovers and the KM Move (a subtle steal) to create the illusion of separation. Reid Ferry describes it as a simpler alternative to more complex methods, noting that while it may not be as clean as some other approaches, it is highly practical and deceptive.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This method is suitable for magicians who want a straightforward yet effective version of Oil & Water. It works well for performers who prefer routines where the spectator does most of the handling, making the magic feel fair and impossible. Beginners will appreciate its simplicity, while more advanced magicians may find it a useful addition to their repertoire for its deceptive qualities.

Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform

The Block Push-Off & Double Display is not overly difficult, but it does require proficiency with double turnovers and the KM Move. Ferry acknowledges that it is not as clean as some other methods, meaning performers must pay attention to angles and timing. However, with practice, it becomes a smooth and convincing routine.

What Magicians Say

Reid Ferry, who teaches this method, describes it as a practical and deceptive approach to Oil & Water. He states, "It’s not quite as clean" as some other methods but praises its effectiveness in performance. The routine is part of a larger tutorial where Ferry emphasizes fairness and spectator involvement, making the magic feel more organic.

Ferry’s overall view on Oil & Water applies here as well: "It’s not life-changing magic, but it’s strong magic." This method fits that description, offering a solid, visual effect that works well in performance.

What people are saying about Block Push-Off & Double Display

Reid Ferry says...

It’s not life-changing magic, but it’s strong magic.

Tutorial videos