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Dead Cert by Chris Congreve and Stellar Magic

Created by: Chris Congreve, Stellar Magic

Dead Cert is a historical figure prediction trick using a playing card, where a spectator names a historical figure and a pre-written prediction matches their choice. This is a mentalism trick that is simple yet highly effective, designed for close-up or parlour settings. The method involves no sleight of hand, relying instead on clever scripting. It's noted for being a 'magician destroyer' when it hits, though it's not 100% foolproof.

Key features

  • Historical figure prediction with a playing card

  • No sleight of hand required

  • Simple method based on scripting

  • Highly effective when it works

  • Designed for close-up or parlour settings

Pros

  • Simple method with no moves

  • Highly effective reactions when it hits

  • No sleight of hand required

  • Great for mentalism performances

Cons

  • Not 100% foolproof

  • Requires handling for misses

Effect

Dead Cert is a historical figure prediction trick using a playing card. A spectator names any historical figure, and the magician reveals a pre-written prediction that matches their choice. The effect appears impossible, as the prediction seems to perfectly align with the spectator's free choice.

Full Details

Dead Cert is a mentalism-style trick with a strong historical theme. The method relies on scripting and psychological forces rather than sleight of hand. The magician presents a playing card with a written prediction, and after the spectator names a historical figure, the card is shown to match their selection. The trick is designed for high-impact moments, with the potential for strong reactions when it succeeds.

Who Should Consider the Trick

Dead Cert is ideal for magicians who enjoy mentalism and prediction effects. It works well in close-up or parlour settings, particularly for audiences who appreciate historical or intellectual themes. Since the method does not require advanced sleight of hand, it is accessible to performers of varying skill levels. However, it requires confidence in presentation and handling potential misses, as the effect is not 100% foolproof.

Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform

The trick is technically simple, with no difficult moves or gimmicks to manage. The challenge lies in the presentation and scripting. Magicians must be comfortable with audience interaction and quick thinking if the prediction does not immediately match the spectator's choice. Chris Congreve includes advice on handling these moments, making it easier to adapt during performance.

What Magicians Say

Craig Petty, reviewing Dead Cert, describes it as a "magician destroyer" when it works, praising its simplicity and impact. He notes that while the trick is not completely foolproof, the reactions it generates make it worth the risk. The method relies on clever scripting rather than sleight of hand, making it accessible to a wide range of performers.

Chris Congreve, the creator, is known for practical and worker-friendly magic, and Dead Cert follows this trend. The trick is designed for real-world performance, emphasizing strong audience reactions over complex methods. Magicians who appreciate direct, high-impact effects will find Dead Cert a valuable addition to their repertoire.

What people are saying about Dead Cert

Craig Petty says...

Simple method with no moves—just scripting. When it hits, it’s a 'magician destroyer.' [...] Chris includes advice for handling misses, but Craig finds it worth the risk for the reactions.

Review videos