Notion of Motion by Angelo Carbone

Created by: Angelo Carbone

Notion of Motion is a legendary rising card effect where a spectator freely names any card from a standard deck, and that very card visibly rises out of a boxed deck. This is a close-up or parlour magic trick that avoids common gimmicks like threads, magnets, or electronics. The method is ingeniously mechanical, requiring no forces or equivocation, making it a pure and baffling piece of magic. The deck and box cannot be examined, and angles must be managed, but the effect is versatile for stage, parlour, or banquet performances. The trick includes a handcrafted deck and a secret device for portability.

Where to buy

Monster Magic	Notion of Motion by Angelo Carbone	£105.50	🇬🇧 Shop
Alakazam Magic	Notion of Motion by Angelo Carbone	£108.89	🇬🇧 Shop
Magicbox	Notion of Motion by Angelo Carbone	£110.96	🇬🇧 Shop

Key features

Spectator names any card freely—no force or memory work required.
Deck and box cannot be examined; angles must be managed.
Includes a handcrafted deck and a secret device for practicality.
Versatile for stage, parlour, or banquet settings.
No threads, magnets, or electronics—pure mechanical method.

Pros

Highly visual and baffling effect.
Creative and bold method praised as a 'work of art'.
Performer has full control over the rising card.
Includes tutorials from Angelo Carbone and Joshua Jay.
Improved and more accessible version of a rare, legendary trick.

Cons

Deck and box cannot be examined post-performance.
Angle-sensitive; spectators must be in front.
Requires practice to master the handling.
Not ideal for every professional setting (e.g., noisy close-up gigs).
One-handed method is more challenging but looks better.

Effect

Notion of Motion is a rising card effect where a spectator freely names any card from a standard deck. The magician holds a boxed deck, and the named card visibly rises out of the deck on command. The trick is direct and visually striking, with no force or equivocation involved. The audience sees the deck spread or handled normally before the card mysteriously rises, creating a strong magical moment.

Full Details

Notion of Motion was created by Angelo Carbone and is now available through Vanishing Inc. The effect allows a spectator to name any card—no forces, magnets, threads, or electronics are used. The deck and box are gimmicked but can be shown in a seemingly normal state before the effect. The trick includes a two-handed and a one-handed method, with the latter being more challenging but visually cleaner.

The deck must remain unexamined, and angles must be managed carefully—spectators should be in front of the performer for the best effect. The method is described as "diabolically clever" and has been praised for its ingenuity. The trick is not self-contained; an additional small gimmick is required, which is included with the purchase.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick is ideal for magicians who perform in parlour, stage, or banquet settings where angles can be controlled. It’s not recommended for walk-around or noisy environments where spectators might demand to examine the deck. Those who appreciate bold, visual magic with a strong method will enjoy Notion of Motion.

Difficulty

The trick is easier to perform than it initially appears, especially the two-handed version, which is accessible to most magicians with practice. The one-handed method requires more skill and rehearsal. The handling is delicate, and the deck must be treated carefully to avoid damage.

What Magicians Say

Steve Faulkner (RealMagicReview) calls it a "work of art" and praises its creativity, though he notes it’s best suited for controlled environments like parlour magic.
Craig Petty (Magic TV) rates it 100%, calling it a "reputation maker" and potential "trick of the year," though he warns about angle sensitivity.
Magic Orthodoxy describes it as "miracle-level material" but emphasizes the need for practice to perfect the handling.
Vanishing Inc. highlights its historical rarity and improved accessibility, calling it one of the most astounding card tricks ever invented.

Overall, Notion of Motion is a highly regarded effect with a strong visual impact, best suited for magicians willing to invest time in mastering its handling.

What people are saying about Notion of Motion

Craig Petty (magic-tv) says...

Notion of Motion is a reputation maker and potential trick of the year. It's a genuinely thought-of rising card with no force or memory work, and the visual impact is incredible.

David (Magic Orthodoxy) says...

This is Miracle-level material. The method is as exciting as the trick itself—it's a work of art. Just be mindful of angles and practice for a polished performance.

Mark T (SaturnMagicShop) says...

A genius piece from Angelo Carbone. It's not self-working, but with practice, it's a jaw-dropper. Just remember: the deck and box can't be examined.

Steve Faulkner (RealMagicReview) says...

This is a standout piece of magic. The method's boldness and cheekiness make it a work of art. While it requires practice, the two-handed version is accessible to most.

Vanishing Inc. (promotional video) says...

For years, Notion of Motion held mythical status. Now, this diabolically clever trick is accessible to magicians worldwide. No threads, no magnets—just pure magic.