Mysterious Thread Phone
Key features
No sleight of hand required
Uses a clever gimmick for the transposition
Borrowable coin can be used
Nostalgic 'string phone' premise engages audiences
Flimsy and non-examinable cups
Limited to one phase of magic
Not instantly resettable
Pros
Instant fooling effect
Borrowable coin adds to the mystery
Nostalgic hook engages audiences
No sleight of hand required
Cons
Flimsy construction
Cups are not examinable
Limited to one phase
Not instantly resettable
Effect
The Mysterious Thread Phone is a visually baffling coin transposition trick. The magician uses two cups connected by a string, resembling a childhood "string phone." A borrowed coin visibly vanishes from one cup and instantly appears in the other, with no palming or sleight of hand involved. The effect is clean and surprising, making it a strong piece for close-up or casual performances.
Full Details
The trick relies on a clever gimmick that allows the coin to move between the cups without detection. The method requires no advanced sleight of hand, making it accessible to performers of varying skill levels. However, the cups are not examinable, and the construction has been noted as flimsy by reviewers. The routine is limited to one phase, meaning it works best as a quick, impactful moment rather than a multi-phase routine.
Who Should Consider the Trick
This trick is ideal for magicians who want a fast, visual transposition effect with minimal handling. It works well in casual settings, especially when playing on the nostalgia of the "string phone" concept. Performers who prefer self-working or gimmick-based magic will appreciate the method, while those who prioritize examinable props may find the construction a drawback.
Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform
The Mysterious Thread Phone is easy to perform, requiring no advanced sleight of hand. The method is straightforward, making it suitable for beginners or experienced magicians looking for a quick, fooling effect. The main challenge lies in presentation—selling the whimsical "phone" premise—rather than technical execution.
What Magicians Say
Craig Petty rated the trick 90%, praising the brilliant method but noting the flimsy construction as a downside. He called it a "clever but niche piece." Ryland Petty gave it 95%, highlighting its instant fooling effect and nostalgic appeal. Both reviewers agreed that the trick is visually strong but limited by its one-phase structure and durability concerns.
The Mysterious Thread Phone stands out as a fun, deceptive trick with a unique premise, though its practicality depends on the performer's preferences regarding props and reset conditions.
What people are saying about Mysterious Thread Phone
Craig Petty says...
Brilliant method, but wish it used sturdier materials.
Ryland Petty says...
95% [...] A visually baffling coin transposition that's both surprising and nostalgic.
Review videos
Name Dropper, Leap+, Cupcake 2.0 & Mysterious Thread Phone | Craig & Ryland's Magic Review Show
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