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Mental Spell by Divernon

Created by: Divernon

Mental Spell is a captivating card trick based on Divernon's classic principle, designed to create a powerful and seemingly impossible effect. It involves a specific 10-card setup where the spectator freely chooses a card, and the number of letters in the card's name determines the reveal method. This trick is perfect for close-up magic, offering a mental effect that requires minimal technical skill, making it accessible to magicians of all levels. The use of false shuffles or cuts is recommended to maintain the setup, enhancing the trick's deceptive simplicity.

Key features

  • Based on Divernon's 'Mental Spell', a classic principle known for its deceptive simplicity.

  • Uses a specific 10-card setup for a powerful effect.

  • Spectator's choice of card determines the reveal method based on the number of letters in the card's name.

  • Requires minimal technical skill, making it accessible to magicians of all levels.

  • False shuffles or cuts are recommended to maintain the setup.

Pros

  • Creates a powerful and seemingly impossible effect.

  • Accessible to magicians of all skill levels.

  • Engages the spectator directly in the magic.

  • Minimal technical skill required.

Cons

  • Requires a specific 10-card setup before performance.

  • May need practice to master the different reveal scenarios.

Effect

The Mental Spell trick creates the illusion that the magician can read the spectator's mind. The spectator freely selects a card from a small packet of cards. Without any apparent clues, the magician reveals the exact card the spectator was thinking of. The reveal happens in different ways, making the trick feel impossible to predict.

Full Details

Mental Spell is based on a 10-card setup. The cards must be arranged in a specific order: Six of Clubs, Ten of Hearts, Four of Spades, Ten of Diamonds, Four of Diamonds, Seven of Diamonds, Queen of Hearts, King of Diamonds, Queen of Diamonds, and Ten of Clubs. The trick relies on the spectator spelling out their chosen card, with the number of letters determining how the card is revealed.

The magician can maintain the setup using false shuffles or cuts. The spectator counts the letters in their card's name, and the magician follows a structured method to reveal it. For example:

  • If the card name has 10 or 11 letters, the card is either the top or bottom card.
  • If it has 12 letters, the top card is revealed.
  • If it has 13, 14, or 15 letters, the spectator counts from the bottom or top of the packet.

Who Should Consider the Trick

Mental Spell is suitable for magicians who enjoy mentalism-style effects. It works well for performers who like structured routines with minimal sleight of hand. Beginners can learn it with practice, but some familiarity with false shuffles helps.

Difficulty

The trick is not technically difficult but requires memorization of the setup and outcomes. The magician must smoothly handle the packet and guide the spectator without revealing the method. False shuffles or cuts are recommended but not mandatory.

What Magicians Say

CardMechanic describes Mental Spell as "phenomenal" due to its reliance on spectator choice. He emphasizes that while it requires a setup, the method is simple to learn. He recommends practicing the different reveal scenarios to master the routine.

The trick is presented as a mental effect rather than a spelling trick, which enhances its mystery. CardMechanic suggests framing it as mind reading to make it more engaging. He also highlights the importance of false shuffles to maintain the setup while keeping the deck appearing fair.

Overall, Mental Spell is praised for its strong impact and accessibility to magicians of varying skill levels.

What people are saying about Mental Spell

CardMechanic says...

This trick is a phenomenal effect due to its reliance on spectator choice and the seemingly impossible nature of the reveal. [...] The method is simple to learn and perform, making it accessible to magicians of all skill levels.

Tutorial videos