Freak by Dave Forrest

Created by: Dave Forrest

Freak by Dave Forrest is a Halloween-ready spooky routine that tells the story of the 'Portrait Ripper'. A participant selects the name of a victim, which is then predicted. They are shown three ripped photographs of victims, remember one, and place the pieces in their hands. The story concludes with the revelation of the chosen victim's name, and when they open their hands, the photograph has not only restored but also transformed to show the victim's face hideously disfigured. This is a close-up magic trick with a strong narrative element, perfect for themed performances or Halloween events.

Where to buy

Alakazam Magic	Freak by Esya G video DOWNLOAD	£8.72	🇬🇧 Shop
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Monster Magic	Freak by Dave Forrest	£18.99	🇬🇧 Shop

Key features

Self-working method based on Forrest’s Five-Piece Restoration
Happens entirely in the spectator’s hands
Includes vintage photos, envelope, and name cards
Versatile: can adapt the story or use the method for other effects
Perfect for Halloween or spooky-themed performances

Pros

Engaging and spooky narrative
Self-working method makes it easy to perform
High-quality props included
Versatile for different presentations
Strong visual impact with the restoration and transformation

Cons

The disfigured image may be unsettling for some audiences
Requires preparation (ripping photos and setting up the gimmick)

Effect

Freak by Dave Forrest is a spooky magic trick perfect for Halloween or themed performances. The magician tells a chilling story about the "Portrait Ripper." A spectator selects the name of a victim, which is sealed in an envelope. They then view three ripped photographs of victims and remember one. The chosen photo is placed in their hands. When they open their hands, the photo has restored itself—but with a grotesque twist: the victim’s face is now horrifically disfigured.

Full details

Freak includes vintage-style photographs, name cards, and an envelope. The method is based on Dave Forrest’s Five-Piece Restoration, making the trick self-working. The restoration happens entirely in the spectator’s hands, creating a powerful magical moment. The props are designed to fit the eerie Victorian aesthetic, enhancing the storytelling.

Who should consider the trick

Freak is ideal for magicians who enjoy storytelling and themed performances. It works well for Halloween shows, spooky events, or mentalism acts with a dark twist. The trick requires no sleight of hand, making it accessible to performers of all skill levels.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

Freak is easy to perform. The method is self-working, relying on clever prop construction rather than manual dexterity. The main challenge is selling the story effectively. Dave Forrest’s tutorial provides clear instructions on handling the props and structuring the presentation.

What magicians say

Alex Kirk from The Monster Magic Saturday Show praised Freak, calling it "a really strong piece of spooky magic." He highlighted the method as "ingenious" and noted the restoration happens "incredibly cleanly" in the spectator’s hands. Kirk also appreciated the props, describing them as "perfect for the story." He suggested performing the trick with a tongue-in-cheek tone rather than melodrama for maximum impact.

Kirk also mentioned the versatility of the method, stating it could be adapted for other effects, such as card tricks. However, he warned that the disfigured image is genuinely unsettling, so performers should consider their audience.

Freak is a standout trick for those who want a visually striking, self-working effect with a strong narrative.

What people are saying about Freak

Alex Kirk says...

Freak features a self-working method with a spooky twist. The props are 'perfect' (vintage photos, envelope, name cards) but admitted the disfigured image is genuinely unsettling.