Fast Forward by Victor Sans and Joe Miranda

Fast Forward: A Magician’s Buying Guide

Effect: What the Trick Looks Like

The “Fast Forward” trick, created by Victor Sans and Joe Miranda, is a clever twist on the classic “baby gag.” It presents the illusion of rapidly aging a baby, culminating in the appearance of a celebrity image. The core effect involves a seemingly ordinary wallet that, when “fast-forwarded,” reveals a picture of a famous person. The trick relies on misdirection and a carefully constructed presentation to create a surprising and memorable moment.

Full Details

At its heart, “Fast Forward” utilizes a specially designed wallet. This wallet features a hidden compartment containing a photograph of a celebrity. The key element is a “fast forward” button on the wallet’s exterior. When pressed, the wallet is opened, and the photograph is revealed, creating the illusion of time passing and the baby transforming into the celebrity.

The trick incorporates three distinct reveals:

The creators have designed the wallet to be durable and reusable, with a focus on ease of use and a professional presentation. The wallet itself is a modern design, intended to be carried and used as a regular wallet, adding to the trick’s believability.

Who Should Consider the Trick

“Fast Forward” is well-suited for magicians who enjoy close-up magic and appreciate a visually engaging effect. It’s particularly appealing to performers who want to incorporate a touch of humor and surprise into their routines. The trick’s versatility allows it to be integrated into various performances, from strolling magic to stage routines.

Specifically, this trick would be a good fit for:

• Close-up Magicians: The intimate nature of the effect lends itself well to close-up performances.
• Stage Magicians: The visual impact of the celebrity reveal can be a strong element in a stage show.
• Performers Seeking a Unique Gag: The “fast forward” concept offers a fresh take on a familiar gag, setting it apart from traditional baby gags.
• Magicians who appreciate well-crafted props: The wallet is designed with quality and durability in mind.

Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform

The “Fast Forward” trick is considered relatively easy to perform once the method is understood. The core mechanics are straightforward, relying on a simple button press and a well-timed reveal. However, mastering the presentation and misdirection is crucial for maximizing the trick’s impact.

• Setup: The setup is minimal, requiring only the wallet and the celebrity photograph.
• Method: The method is relatively simple, involving a hidden compartment and a button-activated reveal.
• Misdirection: Effective misdirection is key to maintaining the illusion. The magician needs to draw the audience’s attention away from the mechanics of the trick and focus on the visual impact of the transformation.
• Practice: While the method is easy to learn, practice is essential for developing a smooth and confident performance.

What Magicians Say

• Saturn Magic Shop (Mark T): “It was the best item seen at Blackpool,” Mark T stated, highlighting the trick’s popularity at the convention. He emphasized its versatility, noting that it can be used for writing, drawing on thermal paper, and revealing effects.
• Murphy’s Magic: Murphy’s Magic praised the “Fast Forward” as the best item they saw at Blackpool, indicating its high quality and impact.
• Brian Resa: Brian Resa commented on the trick’s simplicity and effectiveness, stating that it’s a “great rate principle.”
• Wayne: Wayne noted that the trick is a clever twist on a classic gag, offering a unique and memorable experience for the audience.
• Colin: Colin mentioned that the trick is a good option for social media performances, providing a visually striking effect.
• Matthew Garrett: Matthew Garrett described the trick as a solid method, suitable for both close-up and stage performances, and praised the quality of the props.