Haunted Deck by Eugene Burger

Created by: Eugene Burger

The Haunted Deck is a mesmerizing close-up magic trick that combines elements of mentalism and card magic. The magician places a deck of cards on the floor, and with a simple gesture, the deck begins to move seemingly on its own, as if guided by unseen forces. The magician then instructs the spirits to return the deck, and it does, revealing a chosen card. This trick is perfect for intimate settings, creating an eerie and unforgettable experience for the audience. It requires minimal setup and can be performed with a borrowed deck, making it a versatile addition to any magician's repertoire.

Key features

Minimal setup and easy to reset
Can be performed with a borrowed deck
Combines elements of mentalism and card magic
Creates a mysterious and eerie atmosphere
Perfect for close-up and intimate performances

Pros

Highly engaging and mysterious effect
Versatile and can be performed in various settings
Minimal setup and easy to reset
Can be performed with a borrowed deck
Creates a strong emotional impact on the audience

Cons

May require some practice to perfect the presentation
The eerie atmosphere might not suit all performance styles

Effect

The Haunted Deck is a captivating magic trick that creates an eerie and mysterious atmosphere. The magician places a deck of cards on the floor, and with a simple gesture, the deck appears to move on its own, seemingly guided by unseen forces. The magician can command the deck to return to its original position, and when a card is revealed, it matches the spectator's chosen card. The effect is both spooky and astonishing, leaving the audience in awe of the supernatural-like interaction with the deck.

Full details

The Haunted Deck is a self-working trick that requires minimal setup and can be performed with a borrowed deck if needed. The method is simple and easy to reset, making it a practical addition to any magician's repertoire. The trick relies on a clever principle that allows the deck to appear to move independently, creating the illusion of a haunted object. The presentation can be tailored to fit the magician's style, whether they prefer a serious, mysterious tone or a more lighthearted approach.

Who should consider the trick

The Haunted Deck is ideal for magicians who enjoy performing close-up magic with a touch of the supernatural. It’s perfect for those who want to add a spooky, interactive element to their routines. The trick is versatile and can be performed in various settings, from casual gatherings to formal performances. Magicians who appreciate self-working tricks with strong audience impact will find the Haunted Deck particularly appealing.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The Haunted Deck is relatively easy to perform, making it accessible to magicians of all skill levels. The method is straightforward, and there are no complex sleights or moves required. The trick’s effectiveness lies in its presentation, so magicians should focus on creating a compelling narrative to enhance the eerie atmosphere. With minimal practice, performers can master the Haunted Deck and incorporate it seamlessly into their acts.

What magicians say

Matthew Wright, a renowned magician, describes the Haunted Deck as a "wonderful routine" that he loves performing everywhere. He recalls the first time he saw Eugene Burger perform the trick in Amsterdam, saying, "My head exploded... it’s such an easy get into, there’s no setup on it." Wright emphasizes the trick’s simplicity and resetability, making it a practical choice for performers. He also highlights its versatility, noting that it can be done with a borrowed deck if necessary. The Haunted Deck has remained a staple in Wright’s performances, showcasing its enduring appeal and effectiveness.

What people are saying about Haunted Deck

AlakazamMagicUK says...

Eugene lit his candle, put the deck on the floor, and said, 'Matthew, I cast a shadow.' He just pointed his finger, and the shadow from the candle flickered across the top of the deck, and the deck started to move. [...] It's such an easy get into, there's no setup on it, and you can pretty much do it with a borrowed deck if you want.