Dr. Daley’s Last Trick by Karl Fulves and Jordan Victoria
Created by: Karl Fulves, Jordan Victoria
Key features
Escalating difficulty for the spectator enhances the illusion
Utilizes a four-of-a-kind for the routine
Includes a gimmick with Bicycle Rider Back cards
Gimmicks available in Jacks, Queens, or Kings
Detailed instructions for a smooth performance
Emphasizes respect for the craft and intellectual property of magicians
Pros
Builds upon a classic routine with a modern twist
Flexible presentation options with different card values
Clear and detailed performance instructions
Emphasizes the importance of performance philosophy
Cons
Requires a gimmick, which may not appeal to all magicians
May be complex for beginners due to the escalating difficulty aspect
Effect
Dr. Daley’s Last Trick is a classic card routine where a spectator tries to follow the movement of four cards—typically Jacks, Queens, or Kings—as they are placed in different positions on the table. The magician makes it progressively harder for the spectator to track the cards, leading to a surprising and impossible conclusion where the cards defy logic.
Full Details
The trick uses a four-of-a-kind setup (Jacks, Queens, or Kings) and a gimmick designed for Bicycle Rider Back cards. The routine involves placing the cards in different positions, with each step increasing in complexity. The spectator is challenged to keep up, but the magician maintains control, resulting in a strong magical moment.
Jordan Victoria’s updated version, Dr. Daley Remastered, emphasizes slowing down the routine to make each phase more difficult for the spectator. The effect remains the same regardless of which court cards are used, allowing flexibility in presentation.
Who Should Consider the Trick
This trick is ideal for magicians who enjoy interactive card routines that engage the spectator directly. It works well for close-up performances, table magic, or casual settings where the magician can control the pacing. Those who appreciate classic magic with a refined presentation will find this routine valuable.
Difficulty
The trick is not mechanically difficult, but it requires smooth handling and clear presentation. The challenge lies in making the spectator believe they can follow the cards while subtly controlling the outcome. Jordan Victoria’s approach focuses on pacing, making it more about performance than sleight of hand.
What Magicians Say
Jordan Victoria highlights the trick’s strongest element as the increasing difficulty for the spectator. He states, "The routine progressively asks the spectator to track individual cards, making it increasingly challenging for them to follow."
The gimmick is well-made and integrates seamlessly with standard Bicycle cards. Victoria also emphasizes the importance of respecting magic secrets, urging performers not to expose the method.
This version of Dr. Daley’s Last Trick is a thoughtful update to a classic, focusing on spectator psychology to enhance the illusion.
What people are saying about Dr. Daley’s Last Trick
MurphysMagicSupplies says...
Victoria’s take on Dr. Daley’s Last Trick emphasizes a gradual increase in difficulty for the spectator, which he believes is the trick’s strongest element.
Tutorial videos
DR DALEY REMASTERED by Jordan Victoria
MurphysMagicSupplies mentioned this magic trick in this video.