Cornello by David Jonathan and Nikolas Mavresis

Effect

Cornello is a mentalism effect where the performer introduces five culturally significant lucky charms. A participant freely chooses one charm, and the performer reveals that the selection was predicted in a surprising and impactful way. The reveals are designed to be deceptive and memorable, with multiple strong outcomes that build upon each other.

Full Details

Cornello is part of the Fortuna routine created by David Jonathan and Nikolas Mavresis. The effect uses high-quality custom props, including plastic cards for durability. The routine includes clever psychological influences and hidden details that reinforce the prediction. For example, if the participant chooses the cornello charm, they later discover that over 70 cornello symbols were subtly embedded in the presentation materials, along with text predicting their choice.

The effect resets instantly and packs flat, making it practical for regular use. It is designed to be self-contained, with each possible outcome delivering a strong impact. The routine also includes delayed reveals, such as a poker chip from the Horseshoe Casino appearing when the horseshoe charm is selected.

Who Should Consider the Trick

Cornello is ideal for mentalists and magicians who want a strong, self-contained routine with multiple deceptive reveals. It suits performers who enjoy psychological influence effects and appreciate well-crafted props. The trick is practical for close-up or walk-around performances due to its quick reset and portability.

Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform

The routine is described as "extremely easy to do" by David Jonathan. It does not require advanced sleight of hand, making it accessible to performers of varying skill levels. The challenge lies in the presentation—effectively selling the cultural significance of the charms and timing the reveals for maximum impact.

What Magicians Say

David Jonathan calls Cornello "the best version of mental choice ever," emphasizing its deceptive nature and strong reveals. He highlights the practicality of the routine, noting that it "resets instantly" and "packs flat." The multiple outs are designed to be self-contained, ensuring each possible outcome feels significant.

One reviewer mentions the clever psychological influence aspect, where hidden details reinforce the prediction without the participant realizing it. Another notes the delayed reveal involving the Horseshoe Casino poker chip as particularly strong. The routine is praised for its engaging premise and ability to build rapport with the audience through cultural storytelling.

Cornello is a well-regarded mentalism effect that combines strong psychology, quality props, and multiple deceptive reveals into a practical routine.