Greek Fire by Vernet Magic and Axel Vergnaud

Effect

Greek Fire transforms a mini Bic lighter into a magical paddle, allowing the magician to perform color-changing and visual effects. The lighter appears to change colors instantly, switch designs, or solve puzzles like a Rubik's Cube with a simple wave of the hand. The effect is quick, visual, and uses an everyday object, making it engaging for audiences.

Full Details

The set includes two shells that fit over mini Bic lighters and customizable decals to create different effects. Six routines are taught, including a color-changing transposition, a Mario Brothers effect, a traffic light routine, a gradual color change, and a Rubik's Cube visual. The trick relies on the paddle move technique, a fundamental sleight of hand. The gimmick is portable, requiring only the lighter and shell, but the magician must handle the shell discreetly to maintain the illusion.

Who Should Consider the Trick

Greek Fire is ideal for beginners looking for an accessible paddle move-based trick. It offers multiple routines with one gimmick, making it versatile for different performances. Experienced magicians may find it less valuable if they already master the paddle move and shell manipulation. The trick suits close-up and impromptu settings, especially for casual or younger audiences.

Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform

The difficulty depends on the magician's familiarity with the paddle move. The core technique is straightforward, but smoothly ditching the shell without detection requires practice. Angles are standard for paddle moves, but misdirection is crucial, especially with observant spectators. Beginners may need time to perfect the handling, while experienced performers will adapt quickly.

What Magicians Say

David from Magic Orthodoxy describes Greek Fire as "a fun little paddle move set" but notes some drawbacks. He praises its accessibility for beginners but criticizes the tutorial's robotic voiceover and the decal designs, calling them "jarring" and "toy-like." He says, "The props do kind of look like toys... I don't understand why I'm doing a trick with Mario and Rubik's cubes on a lighter." Despite this, he acknowledges its potential as a quick, portable effect.

The trick's reliance on the paddle move means experienced magicians may not find it groundbreaking, but its novelty—turning a lighter into a magic prop—makes it an interesting addition for some. David concludes, "It's worth considering, especially for those familiar with the paddle move and looking for a quick and portable effect."