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Friction by Peter Turner

Created by: Peter Turner

Friction is a propless mentalism routine from Peter Turner's 'How To Control Minds' kit, where the performer creates the illusion of controlling a spectator's mind by making them unable to push a deck of cards across a table. This trick falls under the category of pseudo-hypnosis, giving the spectator the experience of being influenced or hypnotized without actual hypnosis. The routine is beginner-friendly and part of a larger collection designed to establish the performer as a strong mentalist.

Key features

  • Propless mentalism routine

  • Creates the illusion of mind control

  • Beginner-friendly with detailed tutorials

  • Part of a larger kit with 10 routines

Pros

  • Strong spectator experience

  • No props needed

  • Detailed instructional content

  • Beginner-accessible

Cons

  • High price point for the full kit

  • May require commitment to mentalism to justify cost

Effect

Friction is a propless mentalism routine where the performer creates the illusion of controlling a spectator's mind. The spectator attempts to push a deck of cards across a table but finds they cannot. The performer appears to influence the spectator's ability to perform this simple action, making it seem impossible. The effect is baffling and leaves the audience questioning how such control is possible.

Full details

Friction is part of Peter Turner's "How To Control Minds" kit. The routine uses psychological techniques to create the illusion of mind control. The performer does not need any gimmicks or special props, just an ordinary deck of cards. The method relies on subtle psychological principles that make the spectator believe they have lost control over a basic physical action. The routine is designed to be performed in casual settings and requires minimal setup.

Who should consider the trick

Friction is ideal for mentalists and magicians who want to add a propless mind control effect to their repertoire. It suits performers who enjoy psychological illusions and audience interaction. Beginners can learn and perform this routine with practice, as the method is straightforward. Those who perform close-up or street magic will find it particularly effective.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

Friction is rated as beginner-friendly. The technical skill required is minimal, but the performer must be comfortable with audience management and timing. The routine relies more on presentation and psychology than complex sleight of hand. With practice, most performers can master it quickly. The key challenge is delivering the routine convincingly to create the illusion of real mind control.

What magicians say

Fiddlinjonny describes Friction as part of a larger collection of "pseudo-hypnosis" routines that give the impression of real mind control. He notes that the effect is strong and fits well within the propless mentalism style. While he questions the $150 price for the full kit, he acknowledges the value of the detailed tutorials. He states, "You will walk away with routines that can really establish you as a strong mentalist." The routine is highlighted as beginner-friendly, with the potential to create powerful moments in performance.

What people are saying about Friction

fiddlinjonny says...

Friction is the inability to push a deck of cards across a table, and it's one of the clever routines in Peter Turner's kit that gives the spectator the experience of being controlled without actual hypnosis.

Review videos