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John Bannon’s Cross Purposes by John Bannon

Created by: John Bannon

John Bannon’s Cross Purposes is a captivating close-up card trick that blends mentalism with traditional card magic. Two spectators each arrive at a secret number by cutting and counting cards from a shuffled deck. The performer, without any force, reveals that the first spectator’s thought-of card (based on their secret number) matches the second spectator’s selected card at their own secret number. The trick is enhanced when performed with the Gallery Deck by Mark Spelman, which replaces standard playing cards with images, adding a unique mentalism slant. This trick is perfect for magicians looking to combine card magic with psychological intrigue.

Key features

  • Uses a shuffled deck, making it appear fair and impromptu.

  • No forces or gimmicks, ensuring a clean and examinable finish.

  • Works exceptionally well with the Gallery Deck for a mentalism twist.

  • Ideal for close-up or parlour settings, offering versatility in performance.

Pros

  • Highly interactive, engaging two spectators simultaneously.

  • The method is straightforward, making it accessible for intermediate magicians.

  • The Gallery Deck integration adds a fresh, modern twist to the classic effect.

Cons

  • Requires confident handling of card counts and spectator management.

  • The Gallery Deck, while enhancing the effect, is an additional purchase.

Effect

John Bannon’s Cross Purposes is a card trick that blends mentalism with traditional card magic. Two spectators each cut and count cards from a shuffled deck to arrive at secret numbers. Without forcing any choices, the performer reveals that the first spectator’s thought-of card (based on their number) matches the second spectator’s physically selected card. The effect is clean, interactive, and leaves the audience with a strong sense of coincidence or mind-reading.

Full Details

The trick uses a standard deck of cards, though some performers, like Andy Cooper, enhance it by using the Gallery Deck by Mark Spelman. This adds a mentalism slant, as the images replace traditional playing cards. The method is straightforward, relying on subtle principles rather than complex sleight of hand. The routine is structured to build suspense, with the final revelation appearing impossible.

Who Should Consider the Trick

Cross Purposes is ideal for magicians who enjoy interactive, audience-driven effects. It works well for close-up performers, mentalists, and those who like combining card magic with psychological elements. Andy Cooper highlights its suitability for musicians and performers who prefer a more observational, less aggressive approach to audience interaction.

Difficulty

The trick is not technically demanding, making it accessible to intermediate magicians. The challenge lies in presentation—maintaining clarity and pacing while handling two spectators. Andy notes that the Elmsley count (used in related tricks) benefits from a musician’s sense of timing, but Cross Purposes itself requires no advanced moves.

What Magicians Say

Andy Cooper praises the trick’s versatility, especially when performed with the Gallery Deck:
"The images add a mentalism slant... Cross Purposes works for me with the images adding a mentalism slant." He appreciates how the deck replaces a traditional one, enhancing the effect’s uniqueness.

Another reviewer, AlakazamMagicUK, emphasizes its practicality:
"The Gallery Deck can replace a regular deck in so many routines, and Cross Purposes is a prime example."

The trick’s strength lies in its adaptability and strong audience impact, making it a favorite for performers who value clean, engaging magic.

What people are saying about John Bannon’s Cross Purposes

Andy Cooper says...

My favorite routine to perform is John Bannon’s Cross Purposes from Move 03, using the Gallery Deck in place of a regular deck. The images add a mentalism slant, making it feel even more impossible.

Review videos