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Pinnacle by Kyle Purnell, Brian Caswell, and Joel Dickinson

Created by: Kyle Purnell, Brian Caswell, Joel Dickinson

Pinnacle is a versatile magic effect that appears in multiple forms, primarily as a close-up or parlour trick involving borrowed objects and visual impossibility. In one version, a borrowed ring is magically linked and unlinked from a rubber band, with key techniques like the 'Straight In' movement and 'Hidden Knot' creating a clear visual progression that defies logic, ending with the ring seemingly knotted on the band. Another iteration is a mentalism card trick where a spectator freely names any card, and a gimmicked deck with unique numbers reveals a secret prediction, allowing for creative reveals via photos or social media. Additionally, there's a gravity-defying balancing routine where a pen is balanced on a fingertip and everyday objects are stacked impossibly, with all props examinable and adaptable for close-up, cabaret, or social media performances. Buyers should note that some versions require specific props like a man's wedding band or a gimmicked deck, and practice is essential for smooth execution.

Where to buy

Pinnacle by Brian Caswell from Monster Magic
Monster MagicPinnacle by Brian Caswell£37.99
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Key features

  • Involves borrowed or everyday objects for an organic, impromptu feel

  • Multiple handlings and adaptations for different performance settings (e.g., close-up, stage, mentalism)

  • Emphasizes visual impact and impossibility with clean, examinable finishes

  • Requires practice for precise finger movements and quick transitions

  • Some versions use gimmicked decks or handcrafted props for durability

Pros

  • Highly visual and impossible effects that engage spectators

  • Quick reset times for repeated performances in certain versions

  • Versatile reveals, including through social media or photos

  • Endorsed by respected magicians for its impact and practicality

Cons

  • Gimmicked decks in some versions limit impromptu use

  • Requires meticulous practice to master techniques

  • Specific props needed, which may not be readily available

Effect

Pinnacle is a magic trick that creates a strong visual impact. A performer balances a pen on a fingertip. They then stack everyday objects on top of the pen. The objects remain balanced in a way that seems to defy gravity. The routine ends with all items being handed out for examination. The effect is clean and leaves no evidence of a method.

Full details

Pinnacle was created by Joel Dickinson. The trick uses common, pocket-friendly objects. These are not odd gimmicks. The props are handcrafted for durability and ease of use. The routine includes multiple handlings. Performers can adapt it for close-up, cabaret, or social media settings. The method is designed to be practical for real-world performance. The structure builds impossibility with each object added. The finish is clean, with all props examinable.

Who should consider the trick

Pinnacle is for magicians who want a visual and practical routine. It suits performers who work in close-up or cabaret settings. It is also good for those who perform on social media. The trick uses everyday objects, making it feel impromptu. Magicians looking for a repeatable effect with a strong visual impact will find it useful. It is not for those who only perform with a standard deck of cards.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The trick requires practice to master the balancing and stacking actions. The method is engineered for ease of use, but precise finger movements are important. Performers must learn the sequence of adding objects to maintain the illusion. The routine is structured to help with the learning process. It is not a self-working trick. Dedicated practice is needed to perform it smoothly and confidently.

What magicians say

Respected magicians have praised Pinnacle. Wayne Dobson, Craig Petty, and João Miranda have endorsed its visual impact. One reviewer notes the routine "produces a moment of pure visual impossibility." The clean, examinable finish is highlighted as a key strength. The props are described as familiar and pocket-friendly, making the routine feel organic. The trick is considered a thoughtfully constructed option for performers.

What people are saying about Pinnacle

AlakazamMagicUK says...

Brian Caswell's 'Pinnacle' is a clever mind-reading card trick where a spectator freely names any card, and the numbers on the backs of the deck align with a secret prediction. It's simple to learn and resets instantly, making it great for frequent use.

MurphysMagicSupplies says...

Purnell emphasizes the importance of framing the effect and creating clear visual progression. He believes that in close-up, the focus should be on impossibility, whereas stage magic can prioritize aesthetics.

Rich Relish says...

I like to pride myself on people seeing something which they've never seen before. [...] Using Brian Caswell’s Pinnacle to reveal a wedding couple’s date through card selections often evokes strong emotional reactions.

SaturnMagicShop says...

PINNACLE is presented as a premium offering from their shop. The effect's title suggests a high-quality, perhaps even definitive, piece of magic.

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