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Four of Hearts by Robert Smith and Paper Crane Productions

Created by: Robert Smith, Paper Crane Productions

The **Four of Hearts** is a captivating card trick that plays on the concept of 'soulmates' within a deck, where cards of the same value but different suits and colors are paired. The spectator freely shuffles the deck, and the magician makes two predictions: the Ace of Clubs and the Four of Hearts. After the spectator deals off a number of cards, the magician places the predictions at the indicated locations, revealing that the predicted cards' 'soulmates' appear next to each other in the deck, defying logic. This trick is perfect for close-up magic and requires a secret setup before performance.

Key features

  • Relies on the concept of 'soulmates' within a deck of cards

  • Requires a secret setup before handing the deck to the spectator

  • Performance is key to maximizing the impact on the audience

  • A false cut can be used to enhance the illusion of randomness

Pros

  • Remarkably easy to learn

  • Can elicit a strong reaction from audiences

  • Combines clever methodology with engaging presentation

Cons

  • Requires a pre-prepared deck setup

  • Performance skills are crucial for the trick's success

Effect

The Four of Hearts trick creates a strong moment of surprise for the audience. A spectator secretly writes down a card (such as the Four of Hearts) without the performer seeing it. The performer then reveals the exact card from a deck that has been in plain sight the entire time. The trick appears to rely purely on mentalism or intuition, making it seem impossible that the performer could know the chosen card.

Full Details

The trick involves a clever method for gathering information without the spectator realizing it. The performer uses misdirection, often with a crumpled piece of paper, to conceal how they learn the card. The deck may also be set up in a specific way to ensure the reveal is clean and convincing. Some versions of the trick use the concept of "soulmates" (matching cards of the same value but different suits) to enhance the effect.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick is ideal for magicians who want a direct and powerful card revelation. It works well for close-up performances, mentalism acts, or as an opener to engage the audience. Beginners can learn it quickly, but experienced performers will appreciate the flexibility in presentation.

Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform

The Four of Hearts trick is relatively easy to learn, with most of the difficulty lying in the performance rather than complex sleight of hand. The key is maintaining natural behavior while secretly gathering information. A confident presentation and smooth handling of the deck are crucial for maximum impact.

What Magicians Say

SaturnMagicShop describes the trick as "a clever card revelation" that relies on subtle information gathering. They emphasize the importance of clear communication and confident presentation to sell the illusion.

CardMechanic calls it "remarkably easy to learn" and highlights the concept of "soulmates" in the deck to enhance the effect. They note that while the method is simple, strong performance is key to making the trick truly deceptive.

Both reviewers agree that the Four of Hearts trick is a strong, audience-tested effect that works well with minimal setup. The combination of directness and mystery makes it a valuable addition to any magician's repertoire.

What people are saying about Four of Hearts

CardMechanic says...

The trick is remarkably easy to learn. It relies on the concept of 'soulmates' within a deck of cards.

SaturnMagicShop says...

The performer seemingly reveals the card from a deck in plain sight. The trick relies on a subtle method for gathering information.

Performance videos

Tutorial videos