Fortuna by David Jonathan and Nikolas Mavresis

Effect

Fortuna is a mentalism effect where the performer presents five lucky charms from different cultures. A participant freely selects one charm. The performer then reveals that the choice was predicted in a surprising and impactful way. The trick uses multiple strong reveals, each designed to be deceptive and memorable.

Full details

Fortuna was created by David Jonathan and Nikolas Mavresis. It is a self-contained routine that fits inside a single envelope. The props are custom-made and durable. The trick resets instantly and packs flat, making it easy to carry. The routine includes five lucky charms: an elephant, caduceus, horseshoe, tumi, and cornello. Each charm has cultural significance, which can be used in the presentation.

The effect uses multiple outs, meaning different outcomes are possible based on the participant's choice. Each outcome is designed to be strong and deceptive. One reveal involves a poker chip from the Horseshoe Casino in Las Vegas. Another uses hidden text to influence the participant's choice. The final reveal involves over 70 cornellos subtly placed to reinforce the prediction.

Who should consider the trick

Fortuna is ideal for mentalists and magicians who want a strong, self-contained prediction effect. It requires no sleight of hand, making it accessible to beginners. Performers who value practicality and quick resets will appreciate its design. The trick works well in close-up and walk-around settings.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

Fortuna is easy to perform. It requires no prior skill or sleight of hand. The method is straightforward, and the routine resets instantly. The challenge lies in the presentation, as the performer must engage the audience with the cultural background of the charms.

What magicians say

• AlakazamMagicUK calls Fortuna a "powerful twist on the classic 'Mental Choice' effect" with "jaw-dropping" reveals. They highlight its practicality and zero-skill requirement.
• magic-tv describes it as a "clever and well-made" multiple-out routine with Lucky Charms.
• SaturnMagicShop states that Fortuna is "super practical, easy to do, resets instantly, and packs flat." David Jonathan believes it is the "best version of mental choice ever."
• monstermagicshop praises the "strong, varied revelations" and engaging presentation tips. Alex Kirk notes that the routine relies on presentation to sell the effect.
• TylerLunsfordMagic includes Fortuna in his top 10 tricks of 2022, calling it a "no-weakness" effect with equally strong outcomes.

Fortuna is widely praised for its impact, practicality, and deceptive design. It is a strong choice for performers looking for a reliable mentalism routine.