Mental Block by Dan Harlan

Effect

Mental Block is a multi-phase mentalism trick that uses a wooden box and a custom-designed block with symbols, shapes, and colors. The magician asks the audience to place the block inside the box and remember the color or symbol facing up. Without looking, the magician correctly identifies the top-facing element using heightened senses like sight, touch, hearing, smell, or even taste. The routine builds to a climax where the block vanishes, leaving the audience amazed.

Full details

The trick features a custom block that looks like a simple toy, making it visually appealing and unsuspicious. The wooden box adds to the trick's aesthetic and practicality. The magician can predict the top-facing element using creative methods, such as pretending to use heightened senses, which adds humor and surprise. The finale involves a strong vanish of the block, creating a memorable ending. The trick is versatile and can be adapted to different performance styles, but it relies heavily on the magician's presentation skills.

Who should consider the trick

Mental Block is ideal for magicians who enjoy interactive and humorous routines. It suits performers who are comfortable with audience interaction and can sell the idea of using heightened senses in a playful way. The trick is also a good fit for those looking to add a visually appealing and versatile mentalism effect to their repertoire. Beginners and experienced magicians alike can perform it, as it is easy to learn but offers room for creative presentation.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

Mental Block is relatively easy to perform in terms of mechanics, making it accessible to magicians of all skill levels. The trick does not require complex sleight of hand or advanced techniques. However, its success depends heavily on the performer's ability to engage the audience and sell the concept of using heightened senses. Magicians who are confident in their presentation skills will find this trick straightforward and effective.

What magicians say

Steve Faulkner highlights the importance of rehearsing moves like the knife trick in Mental Block and using organized storage solutions to keep routines running smoothly. He also emphasizes the value of honesty with audiences when trying new material, turning it into a shared adventure. Craig from magic-tv praises the multi-phase structure of the trick, which keeps the audience hooked, and the strong vanish that serves as a memorable finale. Dan Harlan's creativity is evident in the design and execution of the routine. AlakazamMagicUK notes that the trick is visually appealing and adaptable to different styles, though some performers might find the playful 'tasting' method awkward. Overall, Mental Block is well-received as a fun and versatile addition to any magician's repertoire.