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Free Will Plot by Jamie Daws and Alakazam

Created by: Jamie Daws, Alakazam

Free Will Plot is a versatile mentalism trick that plays on the classic 'free will' premise, where a spectator makes seemingly free choices (e.g., tearing, scribbling on, or keeping items like photographs or cards). The magician then reveals a prediction that perfectly matches their choices, creating a powerful illusion of mind-reading. The trick comes in two versions: one with a spooky narrative using photographs and another with a lighthearted theme using playing cards (e.g., Disney, Italy, Las Vegas). It requires no sleight of hand, making it accessible to performers of all skill levels, and is designed for close-up or parlor settings. Buyers should note that the photograph version has a limited run and may require reprints after use.

Key features

  • Two versions: spooky narrative (photographs) and casual (playing cards)

  • No sleight of hand required

  • Minimal pocket space, especially the card version

  • Self-working with strong audience impact

  • Includes master photographs and reprintable files for the photo version

Pros

  • Highly versatile with two presentation options

  • Easy to perform with no technical skill needed

  • Strong emotional impact, especially with the spooky narrative

  • Compact and portable

Cons

  • Photograph version requires reprints after use

  • Prediction props are not inspectable by spectators

Effect

Free Will Plot is a mentalism routine where a spectator freely chooses from three options—typically represented by cards, photographs, or objects. The magician reveals a prediction that matches the spectator’s choices, creating the illusion of mind-reading or fate manipulation. The effect can be presented in different styles, from eerie storytelling to lighthearted, interactive performances.

Full Details

The Free Will Plot is a classic mentalism framework that allows for deep customization. The spectator is given three items (such as cards, photos, or objects) and makes choices—often tearing one, marking one, and keeping one. The magician then reveals a prediction that aligns perfectly with those choices.

Key features:

  • Versatility: Can be performed with cards, photographs, or other objects.
  • Self-working: No sleight of hand is required, making it accessible.
  • Dual presentations: Can be spooky (ghost stories, true crime) or casual (Disney, travel themes).
  • Reusable props: Some versions allow for repeated performances with minimal reset.

Who Should Consider the Trick

  • Mentalists looking for a strong, adaptable routine.
  • Magicians who enjoy interactive, audience-driven effects.
  • Performers who want a self-working trick with deep storytelling potential.
  • Beginners seeking an easy-to-learn but powerful effect.

Difficulty

Free Will Plot is easy to perform, relying on presentation rather than sleight of hand. The challenge lies in:

  • Engaging storytelling to enhance the effect.
  • Handling spectator choices smoothly.
  • Adapting the presentation to different audiences (spooky vs. playful).

What Magicians Say

  • Terry Tyson praises the Free Will Plot for its adaptability, calling it "very versatile" and noting its strong impact in mentalism performances.
  • Jamie Daws & Alakazam's "Freewill's End" offers two versions—one with a spooky narrative and another with a playful theme—making it flexible for different performers.
  • Magic Orthodoxy (David) highlights its ease of use, saying it’s "self-working" and "fantastic for the Free Will plot category."

The Free Will Plot remains a favorite among mentalists for its simplicity, impact, and adaptability. Whether used in close-up or stage performances, it consistently delivers a powerful, audience-driven experience.

What people are saying about Free Will Plot

AlakazamMagicUK says...

David Jonathan's 'Inspiring Innovations' course is a must for magicians looking to create original and fooling effects. He shares his step-by-step creative process and teaches nine powerful routines, including a fresh take on the Free Will Plot.

MagicOrthodoxy says...

Free Will's End is essentially two tricks in one, offering both a spooky narrative and a casual presentation. It's incredibly easy to perform, requiring no sleight of hand.

MagicOrthodoxy (DEQODE review) says...

The Free Will Plot using QR codes in DEQODE is just the tip of the iceberg—this app opens up limitless possibilities for creative mentalism routines.

Terry Tyson says...

The Free Will Plot is remarkable—it adapts seamlessly to any crowd. You can perform it straight as telepathy or weave a narrative into it, making it incredibly versatile.

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