Memetic Slo-Mo by Peter Samelson

Created by: Peter Samelson

Memetic Slo-Mo is a beautifully crafted coin routine that emphasizes grace and justification over flashy moves. The trick involves a single coin that appears to move in slow motion, defying logic as it vanishes, reappears, and transforms in the spectator's hands. This is a close-up magic trick that focuses on fluidity, storytelling, and emotional engagement, making it ideal for performers who want to elevate their coin magic with theatrical depth.

Key features

  • Emphasizes slow, deliberate movements for maximum impact

  • Blends coin magic with theatrical storytelling

  • Suitable for close-up performances

  • Teaches justification for every magical moment

  • Includes detailed explanations and performance tips

Pros

  • Highly visual and engaging

  • Strong emphasis on performance theory

  • Works with a single coin, minimal props required

  • Great for adding emotional depth to coin magic

Cons

  • May require practice to master the slow-motion effect

  • Not ideal for fast-paced or high-energy acts

Effect

The trick "Memetic Slo-Mo" is a coin routine that stands out for its smooth, deliberate pacing. Unlike fast-paced coin vanishes and productions, this routine emphasizes slow, controlled movements that make the magic feel effortless. The coin appears, disappears, and travels in a way that seems impossible, yet every action is justified and natural. The effect is elegant and visually striking, leaving the audience with the impression of witnessing real magic rather than sleight of hand.

Full details

"Memetic Slo-Mo" is a one-coin routine designed for close-up performances. It avoids rapid, flashy moves in favor of a more deliberate and theatrical approach. The routine incorporates justified movements, meaning every action has a logical or emotional reason behind it, making the magic more deceptive. The trick is part of Peter Samelson's broader philosophy of blending storytelling and theatricality with magic.

Who should consider the trick

This routine is ideal for magicians who appreciate subtlety and want to refine their coin magic with a focus on presentation. It suits performers who enjoy slow, controlled magic rather than quick, flashy effects. Those interested in theatrical close-up magic will find "Memetic Slo-Mo" particularly valuable, as it emphasizes justification and emotional engagement.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The difficulty level of "Memetic Slo-Mo" depends on the performer's familiarity with coin magic fundamentals. While the sleights themselves may not be overly complex, the real challenge lies in the pacing and justification of each movement. The routine requires practice to make the actions look natural and effortless. Magicians with some experience in coin work will find it manageable, but beginners may need more time to master the subtleties.

What magicians say

Steve Faulkner from RealMagicReview describes "Memetic Slo-Mo" as "beautiful" and praises its graceful execution. He notes that the routine avoids the typical "bang bang bang" style of coin magic, instead opting for a more refined and justified approach. Faulkner highlights how the trick exemplifies Peter Samelson's ability to blend logic and emotion into magic, making it feel more real and engaging for the audience.

Overall, "Memetic Slo-Mo" is a standout routine for magicians looking to elevate their coin magic with thoughtful presentation and deceptive simplicity.

What people are saying about Memetic Slo-Mo

Steve Faulkner (RealMagicReview) says...

Memetic Slo-Mo is just like it goes, it comes back—it's everything's justified, and it's beautiful. [...] It's not bang-bang-bang; it's a graceful one-coin routine that feels like real magic.

Review videos