Metal Bending by David Penn, Hoang Doan, and Danny Goldsmith

Created by: David Penn, Hoang Doan, Danny Goldsmith

Metal Bending is a close-up magic effect where a performer appears to bend metal objects, such as forks or spoons, using only mental power or psychokinesis. Spectators witness the metal seemingly warp or deform without any visible physical force, creating a sense of wonder and mystery. This trick is often performed at eye level to enhance the illusion and can be integrated into various routines, including mentalism or utility-based magic. Buyers should note that it typically involves specialized props like Liquid Forks or techniques from tutorials, and it's suitable for both beginners and experienced magicians, with some variations requiring gimmicks or careful angle management.

Key features

Includes tutorials for learning the effect and bonus material
Can be performed at eye level for enhanced visual impact
Suitable for various performance settings, from close-up to social media
Some versions require gimmicks, but many techniques are gimmick-free
High demand and limited availability for certain props like Liquid Forks

Pros

Generates strong audience reactions and is described as 'sublime'
Comes with extensive instructional content, such as over 75 minutes of tutorials
Versatile and can be used as a giveaway or unique addition to acts
Good value for money with creative and fooling effects

Cons

Angle limitations may restrict live performance possibilities
Not recommended for beginners without prior experience in similar routines
Some effects require gimmicks, which might add complexity
Cheap cutlery can be easily bent, potentially undermining the illusion if not handled skillfully

Effect

Metal Bending creates the illusion that a performer can bend solid metal objects, such as forks or spoons, using only mental power or a subtle touch. The metal appears to soften and warp in the performer's hands, often while held at eye level, creating a direct and visual moment of impossibility for the audience.

Full details

Metal Bending is a classic magic effect with roots in mentalism and psychic entertainment. Performers use various methods to achieve the bend, often involving subtle physical manipulation combined with misdirection. The effect can be performed with everyday objects like cutlery, making it highly accessible. Some versions, like those using specialized props such as Liquid Forks, are designed for ease and consistency. Tutorials often cover not only the method but also presentation tips to enhance the illusion of supernatural ability.

Who should consider the trick

This trick suits magicians interested in visual, impromptu-style magic that can be performed with common objects. It is particularly appealing to those who perform close-up magic or mentalism, as it creates a strong personal moment with spectators. Beginners may find prop-based versions like Liquid Forks easier to start with, while experienced performers might enjoy methods that allow for more improvisation or that integrate into broader routines, such as those taught in coin magic projects like Beast.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The difficulty of Metal Bending varies. Prop-based methods, like using Liquid Forks, are generally easier to learn and perform reliably. As noted by AlakazamMagicUK, these come with tutorials that make the effect accessible. Other methods, which rely on sleight of hand and misdirection, require more practice to master. PigCake points out that classic performers used skill and risk, suggesting that a convincing performance demands good timing and audience management. Some versions, like the metal bending routine in Beast, may have angle considerations that need careful handling during live performance.

What magicians say

Magicians highlight the strong audience reactions Metal Bending can generate. AlakazamMagicUK states that reactions are "sublime" and calls Liquid Forks "literally the best forks for metal bending." The trick is noted for its impact as a giveaway or a unique addition to an act. However, PigCake offers a critical perspective, noting that modern performances sometimes lack the nuance and skill of classic routines, urging magicians to focus on creating a genuine sense of wonder rather than obvious deception. From a utility standpoint, David Penn's Topit 180 is praised by magicians like Wayne Dobson for expanding possibilities, including applications for metal bending, calling it "revolutionary."

What people are saying about Metal Bending

AlakazamMagicUK says...

Liquid Forks are literally the best forks for metal bending, and the routine is performed at eye level with audience reactions described as sublime.

magicorthodoxy says...

Beast offers two and a half hours of coin magic instruction, including metal bending, and is not recommended for beginners but provides excellent value for the content.

MurphysMagicSupplies says...

Topit 180 allows vanishing, stealing, and ditching objects with one device and includes over 75 minutes of tutorial content covering effects like metal bending.

PigCake says...

Modern metal bending is often a simple deception of subtly bending the metal while diverting attention, lacking the skill and nuance of classic performers.

RealMagicReview says...

Beast includes creative and fooling effects like metal bending, with Danny's variation being easier to learn but angles can be tricky for live performances.