Devil's Elevator by Karl Fulves

Created by: Karl Fulves

Devil's Elevator is a classic close-up card trick that creates a baffling visual illusion for spectators. In the effect, a spectator selects a card, which is then lost in the deck. Miraculously, the selected card is found impossibly sandwiched between two other cards, such as the black aces, that have been in full view the entire time. This trick relies on clever mathematical principles and simple setups rather than advanced sleight of hand, making it accessible for magicians of all skill levels. It can be performed impromptu with a regular deck of cards and is ideal for adding a reliable, self-working routine to one's repertoire, emphasizing strong presentation and misdirection to enhance the magical climax.

Key features

Self-working routine with no difficult sleight of hand required
Uses a clever mathematical principle for a powerful effect
Suitable for beginners and experienced magicians alike
Can be performed impromptu with any deck of cards
Emphasizes presentation, narrative, and misdirection for maximum impact

Pros

Easy to learn and perform, making it great for beginners
Highly visual and deceptive effect that baffles audiences
Relies on simple setups and principles, reducing the need for complex moves
Versatile; can be adapted with variations like face-down handling or using the Elmsley Count

Cons

May require practice for smooth execution, especially with techniques like the Elmsley Count
Some variations might involve basic sleight of hand that could be challenging for absolute novices
Effectiveness heavily depends on presentation skills to avoid appearing as a mere puzzle

Effect

The Devil's Elevator is a card trick where a spectator selects a card. The card is lost in the deck. Later, the magician shows two cards, such as the black aces, that have been in view the whole time. The selected card appears impossibly between them. In some versions, a card visibly rises from a named position in a small packet to the top.

Full details

The Devil's Elevator is a self-working trick. It uses a mathematical principle or a simple setup. No difficult sleight of hand is needed. Some versions use a pre-set stack of cards. Other versions use a false shuffle or a false cut. The Elmsley Count is a key technique in one variation. This false count hides the true number of cards. The trick works with a regular deck. It is suitable for close-up performances.

Who should consider the trick

This trick is good for magicians of all skill levels. Beginners will find it easy to learn. It requires no advanced moves. Experienced magicians can use it as a reliable routine. It is ideal for impromptu situations. Performers who want a strong visual effect should consider it.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The Devil's Elevator is not difficult. The method is straightforward. Basic card handling is sufficient. One variation uses the Elmsley Count. This requires practice to look natural. Confidence and timing are more important than complex sleights. With minimal practice, most magicians can perform it well.

What magicians say

BestMagic states the trick is "a self-working routine with no difficult sleight of hand." They call it "a truly baffling experience for audiences." They note it is "accessible for beginners" and "a reliable, hands-off miracle." Another reviewer mentions it uses "a clever mathematical principle for a baffling and powerful magical climax." ChampionMagic describes a performance where "black and red cards mysteriously switch positions," calling it "a visually stunning effect." BestMagic also emphasizes that "presentation, narrative, misdirection, and confident handling" enhance the effect.

What people are saying about Devil's Elevator

BestMagic says...

The Devil's Elevator is a self-working card trick that relies on a clever mathematical principle for a baffling and powerful magical climax, making it ideal for magicians of all skill levels. [...] Emphasizes the importance of presentation, narrative, and misdirection to enhance the effect.

ChampionMagic says...

Devils Elevator takes the stage, where black and red cards mysteriously switch positions based on their values, creating a visually stunning effect.