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Mario Brothers Effect by Vernet Magic and Axel Vergnaud

Created by: Vernet Magic, Axel Vergnaud

The 'Mario Brothers Effect' is a close-up magic trick that transforms a mini Bic lighter into a magical paddle using a gimmick called 'Greek Fire.' The trick involves color-changing and visual effects, such as making a black-and-white Mario character turn into color, a traffic light routine, and a Rubik's Cube visual. The set includes two shells that fit over mini Bic lighters and customizable decals to create different effects. The core technique relies on the paddle move, a fundamental sleight of hand. The trick is portable and quick, making it suitable for beginners, though experienced magicians may find it less valuable due to its reliance on basic techniques.

Key features

  • Relies on the paddle move technique

  • Includes two shells and customizable decals

  • Offers six different routines

  • Portable and quick effect

  • Suitable for beginners

Pros

  • Fun and accessible for beginners

  • Transforms an everyday lighter into a magical prop

  • Portable and easy to carry

Cons

  • Tutorial voiceover is robotic and lacks warmth

  • Decal designs (Mario and Rubik's Cube) may seem out of place

  • Requires skill to execute convincingly

  • May not appeal to experienced magicians

Effect

The Mario Brothers Effect is a visual magic trick that uses a mini Bic lighter as a prop. The magician shows a black-and-white image of Mario on the lighter, then with a simple wave of the hand, the image transforms into full color. The effect is quick, surprising, and relies on the classic paddle move technique.

Full Details

The trick comes with two shells that fit over mini Bic lighters, along with customizable decals to create different visual effects. The Mario Brothers Effect is one of six routines possible with the gimmick. Other routines include a color-changing transposition, a traffic light effect, and a Rubik's Cube visual. The shells and decals allow for multiple performances without needing additional props.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick is best suited for beginners or magicians looking for a portable, quick visual effect. It works well in casual settings, especially for younger audiences who recognize the Mario theme. More experienced magicians may find the trick too basic if they already know the paddle move well.

Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform

The trick relies on the paddle move, a fundamental sleight of hand technique. The main challenge is smoothly ditching the shell after the color change while maintaining misdirection. Angles are dictated by the paddle move, so performers must be mindful of their hand positioning. The tutorial provides guidance, but some reviewers note the voiceover is robotic and lacks warmth.

What Magicians Say

David from Magic Orthodoxy describes the Mario Brothers Effect as "a fun little paddle move set" but notes that the decals make the lighter look like a toy. He says, "I don't understand why I'm doing a trick with Mario and Rubik's cubes on a lighter." Despite this, he acknowledges that the trick is accessible for beginners and easy to carry. He also criticizes the tutorial for its computer-generated voice, calling it "horrible."

Overall, the Mario Brothers Effect is a simple, visual trick that works best for casual performances, especially for those new to the paddle move.

What people are saying about Mario Brothers Effect

David (Magic Orthodoxy) says...

This is a fun little paddle move set where you can make your everyday lighter into a paddle by adding some decals to it. [...] The dubbing voice is horrible because it sounds like they typed the words into a computer and then the computer reads the instructions.

Review videos