Fast & Loose by Paul Vigil

Created by: Paul Vigil

Fast & Loose is a close-up rope routine based on the classic con game 'cut and restored' principle, where the performer bets on a 50/50 choice with a rope or cord, but always knows the outcome, creating a deceptive and powerful effect. The trick is direct, quick-paced, and requires minimal sleight-of-hand, making it accessible for various skill levels while maintaining strong audience impact. Buyers should note that it is a teaching product by Paul Vigil, focusing on practical performance and real-world applications.

Key features

Based on the legendary con game premise with a 50/50 betting scenario
Requires minimal sleight-of-hand, making it accessible for beginners and experts
Direct and deceptive routine suitable for close-up performances
Teaching product from a master magician, Paul Vigil
Quick-paced and powerful effect that can be performed impromptu

Pros

Highly deceptive and powerful for lay audiences
Easy to learn with minimal practice required
Practical for real-world performance situations
Comes from a reputable creator with expert insights

Cons

May not appeal to those who prefer complex sleight-of-hand tricks
Relies on a specific premise that might not fit all performance styles

Effect

Fast & Loose is a rope routine where the magician appears to cut a rope into pieces and then instantly restores it to one whole piece. The effect is direct and visual, creating a moment of impossibility for the audience. The rope is shown clearly before and after the restoration, with no visible signs of the cut.

Full details

Fast & Loose is a modern take on the classic cut and restored rope principle. Created by Paul Vigil, the routine uses a specific method that allows for quick and deceptive restoration. The props are simple, typically a length of rope or cord. The routine is designed to be performed with minimal setup and reset, making it practical for repeated use. The method does not rely on complex sleight of hand, focusing instead on a clever and efficient process.

Who should consider the trick

This trick is suitable for magicians who perform close-up or walk-around magic. It works well in social settings, street magic, or any situation where a quick, visual effect is needed. Magicians looking for a routine that is easy to carry and reset will find Fast & Loose practical. It is also a good choice for those who want to add a classic plot with a modern method to their repertoire.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

Fast & Loose is accessible to magicians of various skill levels. The method requires minimal sleight of hand, as noted by Craig Petty and Ryland, who said it "doesn't require extensive sleight-of-hand." The learning curve is manageable, with the focus on timing and presentation rather than difficult techniques. Practice is needed to make the restoration look effortless, but the method is straightforward.

What magicians say

Alex Kirk from Monster Magic described Fast & Loose as "direct, deceptive, and powerful." He emphasized its strength as a rope routine that lives up to its name. Craig Petty and Ryland noted that the routine is "clever" and "practical for real-world performance," highlighting that it remains very strong for lay audiences. These reviews point to a trick that is both effective and easy to use in performance.

What people are saying about Fast & Loose

Alex Kirk says...

Fast and Loose by Paul Vigil, a rope routine that he feels lives up to its name, praising its directness and deceptive power.

Craig Petty says...

A rope or cord routine that plays with the classic 'cut and restored' principle, but with a modern, quick-paced presentation. [...] They highlighted that it doesn't require extensive sleight-of-hand, making it accessible, while the routine itself remains very strong for lay audiences.

Nick Locapo says...

Fast and Loose by Paul Vigil is a teaching product focused on the legendary con game. The premise involves betting a significant amount of money on a 50/50 choice, but the performer already knows the outcome. Locapo frames this as learning from a master.