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Optical Reverse by Matt McGurk

Created by: Matt McGurk

Optical Reverse is a close-up card magic routine that unfolds in five phases, building to a surprise climax. The magician uses a borrowed, shuffled deck to perform a series of deceptive moves, including a visual color change, a two-card transposition, and a Color Monte-style finish, all woven into a logical narrative. This impromptu trick is designed for smooth transitions and strong audience reactions, making it suitable for both beginners and professionals in various settings like street magic or parlour performances. Buyers should note that it emphasizes presentation and pacing, requiring practice to master the natural flow between phases.

Key features

  • Five-phase routine that builds to a surprise ending

  • Uses a borrowed, shuffled deck for impromptu performance

  • Focuses on smooth transitions and logical narrative

  • Suitable for beginners and professionals

  • Emphasizes presentation and pacing for maximum impact

Pros

  • Highly deceptive and practical for impromptu settings

  • Clear, methodical teaching makes it accessible for all skill levels

  • Builds audience investment with a compelling story

Cons

  • Requires practice to perfect transitions and pacing

Effect

The Optical Reverse trick presents a sequence of surprising card transformations. A spectator sees cards change color and position in impossible ways. The routine builds to a final revelation that defies logic. The audience experiences a series of visual miracles that appear completely fair.

Full details

Optical Reverse is a multi-phase card routine. It uses a borrowed and shuffled deck. The trick involves a series of card controls and transformations. Each phase sets up the next one logically. The routine includes a visual color change and a two-card transposition. It concludes with a strong finish similar to a Color Monte effect. The method relies on specific sleight of hand techniques designed for smoothness.

Who should consider the trick

This trick suits both beginners and professional magicians. Performers who want an impromptu routine will find it practical. It is ideal for magicians who perform with borrowed decks. Those looking for a complete routine with a strong narrative will benefit from learning Optical Reverse.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The technical demands are manageable. Matt McGurk describes one key move as the "World's Easiest Double Lift." The routine focuses on smooth transitions rather than complex sleights. Practice is required to make the phases flow together naturally. The difficulty level is accessible for most magicians with basic card handling skills.

What magicians say

Matt McGurk used this routine in his professional shows for over ten years. He states the trick is "accessible for both beginners and seasoned performers." He loved the routine for its "deceptive simplicity and powerful payoff." McGurk advises performers to "practice the transitions between phases until they feel completely natural." He emphasizes treating each phase as a "mini-revelation" to build audience investment.

What people are saying about Optical Reverse

Matt McGurk says...

This tutorial provides a complete, ready-to-perform routine that is both technically manageable and highly deceptive. Matt McGurk's approach focuses on strong foundational principles and clear, methodical teaching, making it an excellent resource for magicians looking to add a classic plot with a modern, professional presentation to their repertoire.

Tutorial videos