Freewill’s End by Jamie Daws and Alakazam

Created by: Jamie Daws, Alakazam

Freewill’s End is a captivating mentalism trick that plays on the classic Free Will plot, offering two distinct presentation styles in one package. The magician presents the spectator with three photographs (or playing cards in the alternate version) representing different characters or themes. The spectator freely chooses one to tear, one to scribble on, and one to keep. The magician then reveals a prediction that perfectly matches all three choices, creating a powerful illusion of mind-reading. The trick comes in two versions: a spooky narrative with photographs and a lighthearted, casual version using playing cards themed around Disney, Italy, and Las Vegas. The photograph version includes master photographs for predictions and a supply of film paper photographs for spectator interaction, while the playing card version features durable, specially printed cards. The effect requires no sleight of hand, making it accessible to performers of all skill levels, and is ideal for close-up or parlour settings.

Key features

  • Two presentation styles in one: spooky narrative and casual/lighthearted

  • No sleight of hand required—self-working and easy to perform

  • Minimal pocket space, especially with the playing card version

  • Photograph version includes reprintable spectator photos

  • Durable playing cards for repeated use

Pros

  • Versatile presentation options to suit different audiences

  • Strong, self-working mentalism routine

  • Engaging and interactive for spectators

  • Compact and portable for easy carrying

Cons

  • Photograph version has a limited run and requires reprinting

  • Predictions cannot be handed out or examined by spectators

Effect

The trick "Freewill’s End" presents a powerful mentalism effect where a spectator freely chooses to tear, scribble on, or keep one of three items—either photographs or playing cards. The magician then reveals a prediction that perfectly matches the spectator’s choices, creating the illusion of mind-reading. The effect can be presented in two distinct styles: a spooky narrative or a casual, upbeat theme.

Full Details

"Freewill’s End" comes in two versions. The first uses photographs of three characters (a man, a boy, and a woman) with a mysterious storyline. The spectator physically tears one photo, scribbles on another, and keeps the third. The magician’s prediction matches these actions exactly. The second version uses playing cards themed around Disney, Italy, and Las Vegas, where the spectator mentally selects which card to tear, scribble, or keep.

The package includes master photographs for predictions, extra film paper photos for spectators to interact with, and two sets of specially printed playing cards. The photograph version requires reprints once the spectator photos are used up, while the playing card version is durable for repeated use.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick suits magicians who enjoy mentalism and free will plots. It works well for performers who prefer either a dark, narrative-driven presentation or a lighthearted, visual approach. Since it requires no sleight of hand, it is accessible to beginners but offers enough depth for experienced performers to customize.

Difficulty

"Freewill’s End" is easy to perform, with no sleight of hand required. The challenge lies in presentation and handling the props smoothly. The trick is self-working once set up, making it ideal for performers who want a strong effect without complex moves.

What Magicians Say

David from Magic Orthodoxy praises the trick, calling it "a fantastic addition to the Free Will plot category." He highlights its versatility, stating, "You get two tricks in one—spooky or casual." He also notes the minimal pocket space needed, especially for the playing card version, which can fit in a wallet. Regarding difficulty, he says, "There is literally no sleight of hand. It is self-working."

The photograph version’s limited run is mentioned as a minor drawback, but the ability to reprint photos mitigates this. Overall, David considers it a worthwhile investment for magicians seeking a strong mentalism routine.

What people are saying about Freewill’s End

David (Magic Orthodoxy) says...

This is a fantastic addition to the Free Will plot category... it's one of my favorite plots in magic, and Jamie Daws and Alakazam have done it again.

Review videos