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Max Maven's Premise by Max Maven

Created by: Max Maven

Max Maven's Premise is a mentalism trick where the magician reveals a prediction before the spectator makes a choice, creating the illusion of complete freedom while ensuring the prediction matches the spectator's selection. This is typically done with a folded piece of paper or card on the table, which is later revealed to match the spectator's choice. The trick is versatile and can be adapted for close-up or parlour settings, often using minimal props like a standard deck of cards or a billet. Buyers should note that some versions may require slight sleight-of-hand, while others are self-working.

Key features

  • Versatile for close-up or parlour magic

  • Minimal setup with standard props

  • Some versions require sleight-of-hand, others are self-working

  • Forgiving angles and inspectable

Pros

  • Highly reliable and likely to succeed

  • Accessible to magicians of all skill levels

  • Strong audience impact with the illusion of free choice

Cons

  • Some versions may require practice for sleight-of-hand

  • Limited to specific prediction-based routines

Effect

Max Maven's Premise is an open prediction effect where the magician reveals a prediction before the spectator makes their choice. The prediction is placed openly on the table, often as a folded billet or card. The spectator then freely selects a card or makes a decision, yet the magician's prediction matches their choice perfectly. This creates the illusion of complete freedom for the spectator while maintaining an impossible outcome.

Full Details

The trick is part of the "Open Predictions" project by PigCake and Peter Turner. It involves a billet that remains on the table throughout the performance. The magician does not touch the billet after placing it down, reinforcing the fairness of the prediction. The method ensures the prediction aligns with the spectator's choice without any suspicious moves. The trick is designed to be reliable and works under close scrutiny.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick suits magicians who perform close-up or mentalism routines. It is ideal for those who want a strong, self-working prediction effect with minimal setup. The trick is accessible to beginners but also offers depth for experienced performers looking to refine their presentation. It works well in both casual and formal settings.

Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform

The trick is not technically demanding. It relies more on presentation than complex sleight of hand. The method is straightforward, making it suitable for magicians of all skill levels. The angles are forgiving, and the spectator can handle the billet, adding to the effect's credibility. No advanced moves or gimmicks are required.

What Magicians Say

David from Magic Orthodoxy praises the trick, calling it one of his favorites from the "Open Predictions" project. He highlights its reliability and the strong reaction it generates. He notes that the trick is easy to perform and requires no extra setup beyond a standard deck and a billet. The effect is described as mind-boggling due to its apparent fairness and impossibility.

What people are saying about Max Maven's Premise

magicorthodoxy says...

The open prediction plot is mind-boggling because you can see how fair the cuts and shuffles are—the card should be completely lost, yet it finds the one the magician called.

Review videos