Focus by Craig Petty and Phil Smith

Effect

The Focus trick creates a mind-blowing experience for the audience by combining movie-themed mentalism and visual magic. Spectators see a deck of cards featuring movie posters and quotes. The magician predicts their chosen film, reveals hidden details like box office numbers or directors (which aren't printed on the cards), and even makes characters like Slimer from Ghostbusters visually jump off the cards. The routine feels interactive and impossible, leaving audiences stunned.

Full details

• Deck Composition: 52 cards—26 movie posters and 26 corresponding quote cards—all marked with a sophisticated system.
• Hidden Information: The deck reveals details not printed on the cards (e.g., box office gross, director names) via secret markings.
• Versatility: Works for both magicians (visual tricks) and mentalists (mind-reading). Includes gimmick cards like a double-backed Slimer card for visual transformations.
• Mother of All Book Tests (MOABT): Real movie quotes organically incorporate the MOABT principle, allowing word-based revelations.
• Cyclical Stack: Cards are arranged alphabetically (A-Z) for stack-based routines, but can also be shuffled for other effects.

Who should consider the trick

• Mentalists: The deck’s marking system and hidden data make it perfect for mind-reading and predictions.
• Magicians: Visual routines (e.g., Slimer jumping off cards) add flair to performances.
• Social Performers: The movie theme engages casual audiences, making it great for parties or strolling magic.
• Fans of Craig Petty/Phil Smith: If you enjoy their previous collaborations (e.g., Evoke), this is a must-have.

Difficulty

• Beginner-Friendly: Basic routines (e.g., revealing a film) are straightforward with the marked deck.
• Advanced Potential: The project includes 40 routines, some requiring sleight of hand or stack management. The marking system is easy to read but offers depth for customization.
• Practice Required: Mastering the full range of effects (e.g., MOABT applications, visual gimmicks) takes time.

What magicians say

• Craig Petty: Calls it his "best release of 2024," praising its versatility and audience connection. He highlights the organic integration of the MOABT and the visual potential (e.g., Slimer routine).
• Lloyd Barnes: Describes it as "Evoke but fun," emphasizing its dual appeal to magicians and mentalists.
• Magic Orthodoxy (David): Praises the marking system’s innovation, noting the ability to reveal non-printed information as groundbreaking. Calls it "stupid good" for performances.
• Murphy’s Magic: Highlights the deck’s relatability ("everyone has a favorite movie") and the strength of live reactions in their demo videos.

Key Quotes:

• "This is the Titanic of marked deck projects." —Craig Petty
• "The ability to reveal information not on the cards cancels out methods entirely." —Magic Orthodoxy
• "It’s like having an open crib in front of you the whole time." —Craig Petty on the marking system

Final Note: Focus is ideal for performers who want a highly engaging, multi-layered tool that blends mentalism and magic with a relatable theme. Its marking system and gimmick cards offer endless creative possibilities, though mastering its full potential requires dedication.