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Larry Reverse by Larry Jennings and Chris Carter

Created by: Larry Jennings, Chris Carter

The Larry Reverse is a quick and deceptive card trick that can be performed impromptu with any deck of cards. The magician has a spectator choose a card, which is then controlled to the bottom of the deck. Using the Larry Reverse, the magician creates the illusion of turning a single card face up in the deck, when in reality, two cards (the spectator's card and a card from the top of the deck) are turned face down simultaneously. The trick is visual, effective, and relies on speed and misdirection rather than complex sleight of hand.

Key features

  • Impromptu and can be performed with any deck of cards

  • Relies on the Larry Reverse move for the core deception

  • Uses bottom control techniques to position the spectator's card

  • Emphasizes speed and nonchalant presentation for effectiveness

  • Suitable for magicians of all skill levels

Pros

  • Highly visual and effective

  • Does not require complex sleight of hand

  • Can be performed anytime, anywhere with any deck

  • Encourages practice of fundamental card handling skills

Cons

  • Requires practice to master the timing and misdirection

  • The effectiveness heavily relies on the performer's presentation and speed

Effect

The Larry Reverse is a quick and deceptive card trick. A spectator picks a card, which is lost in the deck. The magician claims to find it using the "fastest reverse on Earth." With a rapid motion, a card is turned face up in the deck, but it’s not the spectator’s selection. The magician casually corrects this, and when the deck is spread, the chosen card is revealed face up in the middle. The effect is visual, fast, and appears effortless.

Full Details

The trick relies on two key techniques:

  • Bottom Control – The chosen card is secretly moved to the bottom of the deck. Methods like the Marlo Convincing Control, Real Dribble Toss Control, or a simple double undercut can be used. The exact method doesn’t matter as long as the card ends up on the bottom.

  • The Larry Reverse – Developed by Larry Jennings, this move creates the illusion of turning a single card face up while actually turning two cards face down. The magician pretends to cut the deck and quickly flips a card, misdirecting the audience. The chosen card is then revealed face up in the spread.

    • The trick is designed to be performed casually, with speed and nonchalance being crucial for deception.

    Who Should Consider the Trick

    The Larry Reverse is ideal for magicians who:

    • Want an impromptu trick that can be done with any deck.
    • Prefer fast, visual effects over complex sleight of hand.
    • Enjoy tricks that rely on misdirection and timing rather than difficult moves.

    Difficulty

    The trick is considered moderate in difficulty. While the mechanics are straightforward, the Larry Reverse requires practice to make it look natural. The key challenge is aligning the cards smoothly and performing the move quickly without drawing suspicion.

    What Magicians Say

    Chris Carter, who popularized the trick in Beyond Fantasy, emphasizes its deceptive simplicity. He says, "The goal is to make the reverse appear casual and effortless, minimizing suspicion." Speed and nonchalance are critical—the faster the move, the less likely the audience is to scrutinize it.

    SeanDevine notes that the trick’s strength lies in its impromptu nature and visual impact. He highlights that "the Larry Reverse is the heart of the deception," and advises practicing alignment to ensure the cards appear as one during the turn.

    Overall, magicians appreciate the trick for its deceptive power and versatility, making it a strong addition to any card worker’s repertoire.

    What people are saying about Larry Reverse

    SeanDevine says...

    The trick's appeal lies in its impromptu nature – it can be performed with any deck of cards at any time. [...] The core of the effect involves seemingly locating a spectator's chosen card using a rapid 'reverse' action.

    Tutorial videos