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Jax or Wild with Elevator Finish by Nick Trost

Created by: Nick Trost

Jax or Wild with Elevator Finish is a captivating card trick from Nick Trost's 'Subtle Card Creations Vol. 1' that transforms Jokers into Aces, showcasing the magical transformation and manipulation of cards. The trick involves a series of visual transformations where Jokers are turned into Aces, which then exhibit 'mystical properties,' allowing them to appear and disappear at will. The climax, the 'Elevator Finish,' is particularly striking, where the performer lets a spectator decide the final position of an Ace (top or bottom of the deck) with surprising accuracy. This trick is a perfect example of close-up card magic that relies on false shuffles and force techniques, making it both deceptive and engaging for the audience.

Key features

  • Transforms Jokers into Aces with a visually stunning effect

  • Includes the 'Elevator Finish' for a surprising climax

  • Relies on fundamental card magic techniques like false shuffles and forces

  • Suitable for performers of varying skill levels

  • Emphasizes presentation and audience interaction

Pros

  • Easy to learn with basic card magic skills

  • Highly deceptive and visually impressive

  • Engages the audience with interactive elements

  • Versatile for close-up performances

Cons

  • Requires practice to master the false shuffles and forces

  • May not be suitable for performers unfamiliar with basic card magic techniques

Effect

The trick "Jax or Wild with Elevator Finish" involves transforming Jokers into Aces in a visually deceptive way. The magician starts by showing five Jokers, then makes one vanish on its own. The remaining four Jokers are placed in a pile and suddenly change into Aces. A fifth Ace appears unexpectedly, defying the standard deck composition. The Aces then exhibit "magical properties," moving to the top or bottom of the deck at the spectator's command, culminating in a surprising finish where the final Ace obeys the spectator's choice of position.

Full Details

This trick is part of Nick Trost's "Subtle Card Creations Vol. 1" and relies on fundamental sleight-of-hand techniques. The routine includes false shuffles and forces, ensuring the magician maintains control of the cards while creating the illusion of free choice. The "Elevator Finish" is a highlight, where the spectator decides whether an Ace moves to the top or bottom of the deck, resulting in a strong magical moment.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick is ideal for magicians who enjoy visually deceptive transformations and interactive routines. It works well for close-up performances, table magic, or casual settings where engagement with the spectator enhances the effect. Since it uses standard card techniques, it is accessible to intermediate-level performers but can also be adapted by beginners with practice.

Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform

The difficulty level is moderate. The trick requires proficiency in false shuffles, forces, and smooth handling to maintain the illusion of randomness. The "Elevator Finish" demands precise timing and audience management to ensure the spectator's choice leads to a convincing reveal. While not overly complex, practice is necessary to execute the routine seamlessly.

What Magicians Say

ChampionMagic, who performed the trick in their video, praised its deceptive qualities, calling the Elevator Finish "particularly striking." They highlighted the "mystical properties" of the transformed Aces, emphasizing how the spectator's involvement enhances the effect. The routine was described as a strong example of Nick Trost's approach—simple in method but highly deceptive in performance.

The trick's reliance on fundamental techniques makes it a practical addition to a magician's repertoire, especially for those who appreciate interactive and visually engaging card magic.

What people are saying about Jax or Wild with Elevator Finish

ChampionMagic says...

The 'Elevator Finish' is a particularly striking visual, where the performer seemingly allows a spectator to dictate the Ace's final position (top or bottom) with surprising accuracy.

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