Double Back by John Allen

Double Back by John Allen: A Magician’s Buying Guide

Effect: What the trick looks like to the audience

The “Double Back” is a visually striking transposition effect. A magician presents two cards – typically, but not exclusively, red and black – and seemingly swaps them between their hands. The key element is that the cards are already visible in the magician’s hands before the “swap” occurs, creating a powerful illusion of instantaneous transposition. It’s a classic, elegant move that relies on misdirection and a subtle, yet effective, technique.

Full Details

The “Double Back” is a reboot of a classic transposition trick, originally popularized by David Copperfield. John Allen’s version retains the core principle – the apparent swapping of two cards – but incorporates a more streamlined and deceptive method. The trick utilizes a specific hand position and a carefully executed thumb movement to achieve the illusion. It’s a self-working effect, meaning it doesn’t require any props beyond the cards themselves. Allen’s version is known for its ease of performance and its strong visual impact. The trick is presented with a clear, concise method, making it accessible to magicians of varying skill levels. The instructions are straightforward, and the technique is relatively easy to master with practice.

Who Should Consider the Trick

The “Double Back” is an excellent choice for magicians looking to add a visually impressive and easily executable transposition to their repertoire. It’s particularly well-suited for close-up magic, where the audience is in close proximity and can clearly see the cards and the magician’s hands. It’s a versatile trick that can be incorporated into a variety of routines, from simple card magic sets to more complex presentations.

Specifically, this trick would be a good fit for:

• Beginner to Intermediate Magicians: The technique is relatively simple to learn and perform, making it a great addition to a magician’s skillset.
• Close-Up Magicians: The visual impact of the trick is maximized in a close-up setting.
• Magicians Seeking a Classic Illusion: The “Double Back” is a timeless trick that has been enjoyed by audiences for decades.

Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform

The “Double Back” is considered a moderately easy trick to master. The core technique – the thumb movement – requires practice to execute smoothly and consistently. However, the method is self-contained and doesn’t rely on complex sleights or manipulations.

Here’s a breakdown of the difficulty:

• Initial Learning Curve (15-30 minutes): Understanding the concept and the basic thumb movement is relatively quick.
• Mastery (1-2 hours of practice): Achieving a smooth, deceptive execution requires consistent practice and attention to detail. The key is to develop a natural, fluid hand movement that doesn’t draw attention to the secret.
• Misdirection: While the technique itself is straightforward, effective misdirection is crucial for selling the illusion. The magician needs to confidently direct the audience’s attention away from the subtle movements involved.

What Magicians Say

• itsallthingsmagic: “It’s a reboot of a classic transposition trick, Luke lauded its visual impact and ease of use. It’s a really strong effect and it’s easy to do.” This reviewer highlights the trick’s visual appeal and accessibility.
• Taco Tuesday Live Stream Summary: “Luke expressed gratitude for the support of viewers and acknowledged the Magic Castle’s fundraising efforts.” This emphasizes the trick’s value as a contribution to the magic community.
• Patrick [__] and Quiver (Mag Switch Wallet Review): “He recommended pairing it with John Allen’s Perfect Score for easier Mercury folds.” This suggests that the “Double Back” complements other John Allen products, indicating a cohesive system.
• Reviewer (General): “A reboot of a classic transposition trick, Luke lauded its visual impact and ease of use.” This reiterates the trick’s key strengths – its visual impact and ease of execution.