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Card Advertisement by Mark Lemon

Created by: Mark Lemon

PTSD (Portal to a Single Destination) by Mark Lemon is a mentalism effect designed for close-up or virtual performances. The performer presents an envelope containing a card, claiming it holds something for later. A spectator is given an 'invisible deck' (likely gaffed) to separate number and picture cards, selects a card, and places it in the performer's hand. The performer then reveals the envelope contains the spectator's initially thought-of card. This trick requires intermediate skill level, with strict 180-degree angles and non-inspectable props.

Key features

  • Thought-of-card-in-an-envelope routine

  • Intermediate-level effect

  • Strict 180-degree angles required

  • Non-inspectable props

  • Best suited for close-up or virtual performances

  • Includes high-quality materials and detailed instructions

Pros

  • Novel and devious method

  • Well-explained instructions

  • Compact and portable

  • No 'off by one' moments

  • High-quality materials included

Cons

  • Lack of inspectability

  • Restricting 180-degree angles

  • Requires memory work and effort

  • Not suitable for surrounded performances

Effect

The Card Advertisement trick creates the illusion that a spectator freely thinks of a card, which then appears inside a sealed envelope the magician has been holding from the start. The performer introduces an envelope, claiming it contains something for later. A spectator interacts with an "invisible deck," separates cards, and thinks of one. The magician reveals that the card they thought of matches the one inside the envelope.

Full Details

The trick requires a gimmicked envelope and plastic reveal cards, ensuring durability. The method is novel and devious, relying on clever mechanics rather than sleight of hand alone. The props are compact, fitting easily in a wallet or pocket, making it portable for close-up or virtual performances.

Key features:

  • Non-inspectable props (envelope and card).
  • Strict 180-degree angle limitations.
  • Instant reset for quick repetition.
  • Includes red and black envelopes for performance variety.

Who Should Consider the Trick

Card Advertisement suits magicians who:

  • Perform close-up or virtual shows.
  • Want a quick, portable mentalism effect.
  • Don’t mind non-inspectable props.
  • Prefer intermediate-level tricks with a unique method.

It may not be ideal for stage or parlor settings, where other effects like Heritage or Summit might offer more flexibility.

Difficulty

The trick is intermediate in difficulty. While the routine is straightforward, mastering the gimmick operation and necessary sleight of hand requires practice. Some memory work is involved to ensure smooth execution.

What Magicians Say

Sebastian Toca, a magic reviewer, describes Card Advertisement as "very smart and devious," praising its novel method. However, he notes the limitations:

  • Pros:

    • Well-explained instructions.
    • High-quality materials.
    • No "off by one" moments.
    • Compact and portable.

  • Cons:

    • Non-inspectable props.
    • Restricted to 180-degree angles.
    • Requires memory work.

He rates it 7/10, recommending it for casual close-up use but not as a staple for professional gigs. Compared to Heritage, he finds Card Advertisement feels freer but lacks examinability.

For magicians seeking a quick, wallet-friendly mentalism effect, Card Advertisement delivers. Those needing more flexibility may prefer alternatives.

What people are saying about Card Advertisement

sebastiantoca9208 says...

PTSD is a good effect for magicians seeking a casual, thought-of-card-in-an-envelope routine for close-up settings. However, he cautions against its limitations regarding angles and inspectability.

Review videos