Card in Bottle by Etienne Pradier

Effect

The Card in Bottle trick creates the illusion of a selected playing card magically appearing inside a sealed bottle. The audience sees a card chosen freely by a spectator, and moments later, that same card is found inside a bottle that was in full view the entire time. The bottle remains sealed, and the card appears to have impossibly penetrated the glass.

Full details

The Card in Bottle trick is a classic effect that combines sleight of hand with clever misdirection. The magician begins by having a spectator select a card from a shuffled deck. The card is returned to the deck, and the magician performs a series of moves that culminate in the card appearing inside a sealed bottle. The bottle can be examined before and after the trick, adding to the mystery. The method is designed to be practical and portable, making it suitable for close-up performances.

Who should consider the trick

This trick is ideal for magicians who perform close-up magic and want to add a visually stunning effect to their repertoire. It is particularly well-suited for those who perform in casual settings, such as restaurants, bars, or private parties. The trick requires minimal setup and can be performed with everyday objects, making it accessible for both amateur and professional magicians.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The Card in Bottle trick is considered to be of moderate difficulty. It requires a good understanding of basic card handling and misdirection techniques. While the method is straightforward, the execution demands practice to ensure smooth and convincing performance. Magicians with some experience in card magic will find it easier to master, but even beginners can achieve impressive results with dedicated practice.

What magicians say

Etienne Pradier, a renowned magician, includes the Card in Bottle trick in his tutorial series, highlighting its impact on audiences. The trick has been praised for its simplicity and effectiveness, with Pradier noting that it wowed audiences on Penn and Teller Fool Us. The clear instructions and professional insights provided in the tutorial make it a valuable resource for aspiring magicians looking to add this effect to their performances.