Inside by Michel & Vernet Magic

Effect

The trick "Inside" by Michel & Vernet Magic is a prediction effect that combines a freely named card with a written revelation. A spectator names any card from a deck, and the magician reveals a sealed envelope containing a deck of cards and a folded prediction. The prediction states that the named card will be at a specific position in the deck. The spectator counts down to that position and finds their chosen card exactly where predicted.

Full Details

• Method: The trick uses a memorized deck (though no memorization is required, as a crib sheet is provided) and a cleverly designed prediction system.
• Props Included: A performance envelope, a tuck case, and a crib sheet for quick reference.
• Customization: The magician can use their own deck of cards, though a red-backed deck is recommended for consistency.
• Setup: A one-time arrangement of the cards is needed, after which the trick is self-working.
• Performance: The spectator handles the deck and the prediction, making the effect highly interactive.

Who Should Consider the Trick

• Mentalists: The prediction aspect makes it a strong opener or closer for mentalism acts.
• Parlor/Stage Magicians: The effect plays well for larger audiences due to its visual and interactive nature.
• Memorized Deck Users: Those familiar with stacked decks will find this an easy addition to their routines.
• Magicians Who Like Predictions: If you enjoy effects where a written revelation matches a freely chosen outcome, this is a strong choice.

Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform

• Skill Level: Beginner-friendly. No advanced sleight of hand is required.
• Angle Sensitivity: Best performed in parlor or stage settings where no one is directly behind the magician.
• Reset: The one-time setup means no reset is needed between performances.

What Magicians Say

• Magic-TV (Craig & Ryland):

  • Craig appreciates the cleverness but prefers direct card predictions over position-based reveals. He rates it 79%, saying, "I don't know whether I'd do it to be honest."
  • Ryland, however, loves it, giving it 95%, calling it "very clever" and noting its potential for mentalism acts.

• Magic Orthodoxy (David):

  • David praises the trick as "super fun" and "easy to do." He highlights the combination of free choice, written prediction, and self-working method, stating, "It would fool even other magicians." He recommends it for parlor performances and rates it highly.

Overall, "Inside" is a well-constructed prediction effect that offers strong audience interaction and versatility for different performance styles. While some magicians may prefer more direct revelations, its ease of use and fooling power make it a worthwhile addition to many acts.