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Criss-Cross Force by Theodore Annemann

Created by: Theodore Annemann

Criss-Cross Force is a classic card magic technique where the magician subtly forces a specific card on a spectator, making it appear as if they had a free choice. In this trick, the magician crosses two packets of cards over the deck, mechanically controlling a known card to the top, which is then offered for selection. It's a foundational close-up magic method, ideal for card routines, mentalism effects, or any performance requiring a forced card. Buyers should note that this trick relies on deceptive simplicity and psychological misdirection, making it suitable for beginners to advanced magicians seeking reliable and audience-tested forcing methods.

Key features

  • Based on Theodore Annemann's 1933 book '202 Methods of Forcing', a cornerstone resource in card magic

  • Mechanical force method that requires minimal sleight-of-hand, making it accessible for various skill levels

  • Emphasizes audience psychology and misdirection to create the illusion of a free choice

  • Versatile for integration into larger card routines or standalone effects

  • Provides a clean and deceptive way to control a card, enhancing the magical experience for spectators

Pros

  • Highly deceptive and reliable in performance

  • Easy to learn and execute with practice

  • Builds foundational skills in card magic and forcing techniques

  • Can be combined with other effects for more complex routines

Cons

  • Requires practice to master timing and presentation for maximum impact

  • May not be as flashy as some modern tricks, relying on subtlety over spectacle

Effect

The Criss-Cross Force is a card magic technique that allows a magician to control a spectator’s selection. To the audience, it appears that the spectator freely chooses any card from the deck. The magician crosses two small packets of cards over the deck in a casual, natural action. The spectator is asked to take the card at the point where the packets cross. The selection feels completely fair and unforced, making the eventual revelation of the chosen card seem like genuine magic.

Full details

The Criss-Cross Force is a mechanical force, meaning it relies on a simple yet clever physical setup rather than complex sleight of hand. It originates from Theodore Annemann’s 1933 book, 202 Methods of Forcing, which remains a highly respected resource on forcing techniques. The method involves crossing two small groups of cards over the deck. One of these cards is predetermined by the magician. Due to the crossed arrangement, the spectator is subtly guided to take the forced card while believing they had a free choice. The move looks like an innocent handling of the deck, with no suspicious gestures or actions.

Who should consider the trick

The Criss-Cross Force is suitable for magicians at various skill levels. Beginners will appreciate its mechanical nature, as it requires no advanced sleight of hand. Intermediate and advanced performers can use it as a reliable, hands-off force that complements other techniques. It is especially useful for magicians who perform card magic regularly and want a force that is easy to execute under pressure. As magicorthodoxy notes, understanding forcing methods is "absolutely essential for any magician working with cards," and the Criss-Cross Force is one of the most practical options available.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The Criss-Cross Force is considered easy to learn and perform. It does not demand finger dexterity or practice-intensive moves. The method is mechanical and straightforward, making it accessible even to those new to card magic. Mastery involves smooth handling and natural presentation rather than difficult techniques. SeanDevine describes it as having "deceptive simplicity," highlighting that its effectiveness comes from clean execution and confident handling, not complex mechanics.

What magicians say

Magicians praise the Criss-Cross Force for its practicality and reliability. magicorthodoxy emphasizes that it is a "devastatingly effective mechanical force" from Annemann’s classic work, which focuses on "audience management, psychology, and misdirection." SeanDevine recommends it for "working magicians" due to its "real-world application" and the fact that it makes selections "appear fair and free to spectators." Both reviewers stress that the goal is to create a genuine experience where the spectator believes they had a completely free choice, with the force itself remaining invisible.

What people are saying about Criss-Cross Force

magicorthodoxy says...

The goal of a successful force is not to 'trick' the spectator into thinking they had a choice, but to create a genuine experience where they believe they had a completely free and fair choice. The force itself should be invisible; only the magical outcome should be remembered.

SeanDevine says...

The real secret to a successful force is not in the move itself, but in the performer's attitude and presentation. This tutorial provides forces that are not only effective but are also likely to become staples in a working magician's repertoire.

Tutorial videos