Club Sandwich Plus by Mark Mason

Club Sandwich Plus: A Detailed Analysis for Magicians

Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of the “Club Sandwich Plus” magic trick, designed to help you determine if it’s a worthwhile addition to your repertoire.

Effect: Impossible Card Transformations

The “Club Sandwich Plus” trick presents a visually stunning and seemingly impossible sequence of card transformations. The core effect involves a standard deck of cards. Initially, four Kings (specifically, the King of Spades, Clubs, Hearts, and Diamonds) are displayed. Through a series of carefully orchestrated movements, these Kings vanish and are replaced by Aces – the Ace of Clubs, Diamonds, Hearts, and Spades. The key element is that the spectators are able to examine the cards throughout the process, confirming that the Kings are genuinely replaced by Aces, creating a moment of genuine astonishment. The trick is presented as an enhanced version of the classic “Club Sandwich” effect, utilizing a specialized gimmick.

Full Details

The “Club Sandwich Plus” trick relies on a proprietary gimmick – “Outstanding” – designed by Mark Mason. This device, described as being “simple” and “durable,” is inserted into the deck of cards. It’s constructed from playing cards and a few additional components, allowing for the seamless switching of cards without any visible cover. The gimmick is designed to be angle-proof, functioning effectively regardless of the viewing angle. The trick is also designed to maintain examinability; the switched cards remain open for inspection, reinforcing the illusion of impossibility.

The routine itself is structured around two distinct effects:

The video emphasizes that the gimmick is adaptable to different deck brands, though it’s specifically designed for Bicycle decks. While adapting to other brands is possible, it may require some modification.

Who Should Consider the Trick

The “Club Sandwich Plus” is well-suited for magicians who:

• Prioritize Visual Impact: The trick’s core strength lies in its visual clarity and the dramatic transformation of the cards.
• Enjoy Clean Switches: The gimmick’s design ensures that the cards never leave the spectator’s view, appealing to magicians who value deceptive techniques.
• Seek Beginner-Friendly Routines: Beau from Murphy’s Magic notes that the trick is “beginner-friendly,” requiring only the ability to square a deck of cards to perform.
• Perform Close-Up or Walkaround Magic: The trick’s portability and visual impact make it ideal for these performance styles.
• Are Interested in Social Media Magic: The camera-friendly nature of the effect makes it suitable for creating engaging content for platforms like Instagram and TikTok.

Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform

The “Club Sandwich Plus” is considered relatively easy to perform. According to Mark Mason, the gimmick is “simple” and “durable,” and the routine requires only basic card handling skills – the ability to square a deck. The tutorial provided is clear and concise, guiding the performer through each step. However, Beau from Murphy’s Magic suggests that a top-down camera angle would enhance the tutorial, providing a more detailed view of the card movements. The gimmick itself is simple to repair if damaged, and while it’s not waterproof, it’s designed for regular use.

What Magicians Say

• Beau from Murphy’s Magic: Calls the gimmick “the coolest and most deceiving switching gimmick” he’s seen in years, describing it as a “no-brainer” for magicians seeking clean, visual switches. He praises the combination of practicality, strong routines, and beginner-friendly mechanics.
• Mark Mason: Emphasizes the importance of deception and misdirection in selling the illusion, stating that the gimmick is designed to “destroy” the audience’s expectations. He highlights the years of refinement he invested in the gimmick’s design and craftsmanship.
• Reviewer (implied): The overall sentiment expressed in the reviews is one of strong enthusiasm, with magicians describing the trick as “visually stunning,” “impossible-seeming,” and “a standout release.”