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Impodssible by Hsu Hau Jiun and Hanson Chien

Created by: Hsu Hau Jiun, Hanson Chien

Impodssible is a modern close-up magic trick that revolves around the seemingly impossible penetration of an earbud through a clear glass tumbler, followed by a vanish and reappearance within the earbud case. The trick uses everyday objects—earbuds and their case—making it highly relatable and visually appealing. The glass tumbler is inspectable, adding to the illusion's realism. The routine can be adapted for various performances, offering creative flexibility. The trick includes four earbuds, allowing performers to use one in their ear and still have spares for the routine.

Key features

  • Uses everyday objects for a relatable performance

  • Inspectable glass tumbler enhances the illusion's realism

  • Includes four earbuds for versatility in performance

  • 20-minute tutorial available with subtitles on the Hanson Chien website

  • Adaptable routine for various performances

Pros

  • Visually appealing and engaging

  • Natural presentation with recognizable props

  • Clever use of everyday objects

  • Inspectable props add to the trick's credibility

  • Includes a comprehensive tutorial

Cons

  • Tutorial is only available online with subtitles, not downloadable

  • May be more relatable to iPhone users, though not a significant barrier

Effect

The trick "Impodssible" creates the illusion of an earbud penetrating through a clear glass tumbler, vanishing, and then reappearing inside its case. The performer starts by showing an earbud and a glass tumbler, both of which appear completely normal. The earbud visibly passes through the glass, first from below and then from above when the glass is inverted. Finally, the earbud vanishes from the performer’s hand and is found back inside the closed earbud case. The entire routine is highly visual and uses everyday objects, making it relatable to modern audiences.

Full Details

"Impodssible" includes four earbuds (two for performance and two as spares), a weighted earbud case for realism, and a gimmick that facilitates the magic. The glass tumbler used in the routine is ungimmicked and can be examined by spectators. The trick is inspired by the classic chop cup principle but modernized with contemporary props. A 20-minute tutorial is provided, featuring performance tips, variations, and subtitled instructions available on the Hanson Chien website.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick is ideal for magicians who want a visually engaging routine with familiar objects. It works well for performers who enjoy penetration and vanish effects. While iPhone users may find the props especially relatable, the trick remains effective even for those who don’t own Apple products. Magicians familiar with chop cup mechanics will recognize the underlying method, but the routine is accessible to those new to such techniques.

Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform

The trick does not rely on advanced sleight of hand like palming. Instead, it focuses on timing and misdirection. The gimmick handles most of the work, making it easier to execute than traditional chop cup routines. However, practice is required to perfect the pacing and natural handling of the props. David from Magic Orthodoxy notes that while the trick is not difficult, performers should rehearse to ensure smooth execution.

What Magicians Say

David from Magic Orthodoxy praises "Impodssible" for its visual appeal and use of everyday objects. He states, "It looks like the natural products that we see every day... it's very visual, people love penetrations, people love vanishes." He also highlights the quality of the props, mentioning the weighted case adds realism. The only minor drawback he notes is that the tutorial requires online viewing due to subtitles. Overall, he considers it a strong addition to a magician’s repertoire, especially for those who appreciate modern takes on classic principles.

What people are saying about Impodssible

David of Magic Orthodoxy says...

David praises the routine as a visually appealing and engaging piece of magic, particularly noting its use of everyday objects – an earbud case and earbuds – which lends a sense of realism and relatability to the performance.

Review videos