Impossible Location by Ben Williams, Jay Sankey, and Sean Devine

Effect

A spectator selects a card. The magician does not touch the card. The signed card then appears in a location that seems completely impossible. It might be found behind a window, inside a sealed object, or somewhere the magician could not have placed it. The effect is a strong visual surprise that creates high astonishment.

Full details

The trick is a card location effect. It uses methods that are practical and direct. The routine often involves a signed card. The method focuses on principles like misdirection and timing. Some versions may use a force to control the spectator's choice. The method is designed to be clean and fooling. It avoids complex sleight of hand. Ben Williams includes a version in his "5witch" project where the card appears behind a window. Daniel Madison's Purple Bangers deck includes a torn card gaff specifically for an impossible location routine. The effect is suitable for close-up or stand-up performances.

Who should consider the trick

This trick is for magicians who want a powerful climax to their set. It is good for performers who do card magic or mentalism. Ben Williams' material is for those who value natural deception and practical methods. Jay Sankey's routines are for magicians who like organic presentations and clever mechanics. The trick is suitable for both beginners and experienced performers because the method prioritizes cleanliness over difficult moves.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The difficulty level is generally moderate. Sean Devine notes the method focuses on practical execution with minimal complex sleight of hand. Ben Williams teaches switches that are accessible; Roo states the core techniques in "5witch" are taught in the first 15 minutes of a 1.5 hour tutorial. Some methods, like Ben Williams' Switch T, require slight preparation and may be less impromptu. Overall, the methods are designed to be learned and performed without years of practice. The emphasis is on timing and misdirection rather than advanced finger skills.

What magicians say

Ben Williams believes in creating magic that appears effortless. He says his approach aims for the audience to see only what he intends. Roo highly recommends Ben Williams' "5witch" for its real world applicability and clear teaching. He loves Switch A for its timing control. Jay Sankey's impossible location tricks are described as mind blowing. His work is adopted by high profile magicians like David Copperfield and David Blaine, suggesting strong performance potential. Sean Devine emphasizes that the effect is designed to deliver high astonishment and enhance a magician's reputation. Daniel Madison's Purple Bangers deck includes a torn card gaff specifically for an impossible location effect, which David from Magic Orthodoxy praises for its quality and value.