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Block Pushover by ellusionist

Created by: ellusionist

Block Pushover is a versatile close-up card trick that creates the illusion of a selected card appearing between two Jokers. The trick is divided into three phases, each building upon the previous one to enhance the visual impact and perceived impossibility. It involves sleight of hand techniques like the Block Pushover, Witcher Slip Force, Top Change, Maro's Tilt, Classic Pass, and Sandwich Move. The final reveal is designed to happen in the spectator's hands, significantly increasing the effect's impossibility. This trick is ideal for magicians looking for a visually impressive and interactive routine that can be adapted to various performance styles.

Key features

  • Versatile and can be adapted to different styles

  • Requires practice due to being 'very slight of hand heavy'

  • Broken down into three phases for structured learning

  • Final reveal in the spectator's hands enhances the effect

  • Encourages experimentation with different presentations

Pros

  • Highly visual and interactive

  • Strong misdirection and audience engagement

  • Modular and versatile presentation options

  • Final reveal in spectator's hands increases impact

Cons

  • Requires mastery of several sleight of hand techniques

  • May be challenging for beginners due to complexity

Effect

The Block Pushover is a card force technique where a magician subtly influences a spectator's choice by pushing a block of cards over. The spectator believes they freely select a card, but the magician controls the outcome. The effect appears fair and natural, making it a powerful tool for card magic routines.

Full details

The Block Pushover involves pushing a small group of cards (a "block") from the top of the deck while spreading the cards. The spectator touches a card within this block, which the magician then forces. The method relies on timing and misdirection to conceal the control.

This technique is often combined with other sleights, such as the Top Change or Classic Pass, to enhance the illusion. The Block Pushover can be adapted for different forces, including the Witcher Slip Force, where the card is subtly manipulated to appear as a free choice.

Who should consider the trick

The Block Pushover is ideal for magicians who perform card magic and want a reliable force method. It works well in routines where a controlled selection is needed, such as sandwich tricks or prediction effects.

Magicians who enjoy interactive performances will appreciate how the Block Pushover engages spectators while maintaining control. It is particularly useful for walk-around or street magic due to its impromptu nature.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The Block Pushover requires practice to execute smoothly. The key challenge is making the pushover look natural while concealing the force. Timing and misdirection are crucial.

Reviewers note that the technique is "very slight of hand heavy" and benefits from rehearsal. However, once mastered, it becomes a versatile tool in a magician's repertoire.

What magicians say

Ellusionist describes the Block Pushover as a "fun little sandwich routine" that is "super super versatile." They emphasize the importance of misdirection and audience engagement, recommending that magicians adapt the technique to their style.

Another reviewer highlights the Block Pushover's effectiveness in combination with other sleights, such as the Top Change and Classic Pass. They note that the technique enhances the spectator's experience by making the magic feel interactive.

Overall, magicians praise the Block Pushover for its practicality and strong visual impact when performed correctly.

What people are saying about Block Pushover

ellusionist says...

The trick is 'very slight of hand heavy' and requires practice. [...] Having the final reveal in the spectator's hands increases the perceived impossibility.

Tutorial videos