SleightfulFortune Popper by Hypothesis Magic
Created by: Hypothesis Magic
Key features
Suitable for close-up and parlor settings
Basic and deluxe kit options available
Requires performer to source and modify their own poppers
Includes detailed instructions for safe 'popper surgery'
Unused poppers can be reset and reused, reducing cost per performance
Pros
Fun and relatively safe danger act
Performer gains confidence through construction process
Can be performed in various settings
Reusable components reduce long-term costs
Cons
Poppers not included, must be sourced separately
Requires time and effort to prepare poppers
Initial setup may be intimidating for some performers
Effect
Fortune Popper is a danger act where the performer presents several poppers, the small devices that release confetti when a string is pulled. Most of the poppers are inert, but one contains a live charge. A spectator selects a popper, and after a suspenseful buildup, they pull the string. If they chose the live one, confetti bursts out in a surprising and visually engaging moment. The effect works in both close-up and parlor settings, making it versatile for different performance environments.
Full Details
The basic kit costs $65 and includes a plastic ring to hold the poppers and a digital download. The deluxe version, priced at $80, adds tools for "popper surgery," such as scissors, tape, and specialized implements for modifying the poppers. No poppers are included due to shipping restrictions on items containing gunpowder, so performers must source their own.
A significant part of the routine involves preparing the poppers. The performer disassembles and reassembles them to create both live and inert versions. This process ensures safety and builds confidence in handling the props. Unused poppers can be reset and reused, reducing long-term costs.
Who Should Consider the Trick
Fortune Popper is ideal for performers who enjoy constructing their own props and want a visually striking danger act. It suits those comfortable with hands-on preparation and who appreciate roulette-style suspense effects. The trick works well for both close-up and parlor magicians looking for a safe but thrilling audience interaction piece.
Difficulty
The trick requires careful preparation, particularly in modifying the poppers. The first 20 minutes of the instructional video focus on "popper surgery," ensuring performers understand the assembly process. Once set up, the performance itself is straightforward, relying on clear presentation and audience engagement rather than complex sleight of hand.
What Magicians Say
David from Magic Orthodoxy describes Fortune Popper as "a fun and relatively safe danger act." He highlights the importance of the preparation process, stating, "You're going to feel confident because you know where everything is." He also notes that the trick compares favorably to other danger acts like the Staple Gun Trick and Hook by Eric Ross.
The ability to reset unused poppers is a practical advantage, as David explains: "You don't need five poppers for every performance. You only need one new one because only one of them will be discharged." This makes the trick cost-effective over time.
Overall, Fortune Popper is recommended for performers who enjoy hands-on prop work and want a visually engaging, safe danger effect.
What people are saying about Fortune Popper
magicorthodoxy says...
Fortune Popper is a fun little danger act that really would work closeup but then also work in a parlor setting. [...] The great thing is if you think about it, the way the effect goes you're going to discard four poppers the strings will be out but they won't have exploded right so in theory you'll be able to go back put the strings back in those poppers and then use them again for your next performance.
Review videos
Magic Review - Fortune Popper by Hypothesis Magic
magicorthodoxy mentioned this magic trick in this video.