Pinnacle by Kyle Purnell and Brian Caswell

Created by: Kyle Purnell, Brian Caswell

Pinnacle is a versatile magic trick that can be performed as a mind-reading card trick with a unique numbered deck or as a borrowed ring and rubber band routine. The card trick version allows for creative reveals through photos, written notes, or social media, while the ring and band routine focuses on visual impact and impossibility, especially in close-up magic. Both versions require specific setups: the card trick uses a gimmicked deck, and the ring routine recommends a man's wedding band for the final phase.

Where to buy

Pinnacle by Brian Caswell from Monster Magic
Monster MagicPinnacle by Brian CaswellÂŁ37.99
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Key features

  • Versatile reveals including photos or social media for the card trick version

  • Quick reset makes it practical for repeated performances

  • Requires a gimmicked deck for the card trick, limiting impromptu use

  • For the ring and band routine, meticulous practice and quick transitions are essential

  • The ring routine emphasizes the importance of framing the effect and creating clear visual progression

Pros

  • Sophisticated and visually compelling take on classic effects

  • Simple to learn with instant reset for the card trick

  • Allows for personalization and emotional reactions, especially in performances

Cons

  • Gimmicked deck for the card trick means it's not ideal for impromptu situations

  • Requires specific props (man's wedding band for the ring routine)

Effect

Pinnacle is a magic trick that involves a borrowed ring and a rubber band. The magician places the ring on the band, and through a series of movements, the ring appears to penetrate the band in an impossible way. The effect is visual and leaves the audience questioning how the ring could pass through the rubber band without breaking it.

Full Details

Pinnacle is inspired by Russ Derr's original routine and Danny Garcia's "Rubbermaid." Kyle Purnell developed his own version, focusing on clear visual progression and framing the effect for maximum impact. The trick uses precise finger movements, including the "Straight In" technique and the "Hidden Knot," to create the illusion. A man's wedding band is recommended for the final phase to avoid visual distractions.

The trick requires practice to master the quick transitions and finger movements. It is designed for close-up performances, where the impossibility of the effect is the main focus.

Who Should Consider the Trick

Pinnacle is ideal for magicians who enjoy visual, hands-on magic with everyday objects. It suits performers who specialize in close-up magic and want a strong, repeatable effect. Those who appreciate routines with clear structure and progression will find this trick rewarding.

Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform

Pinnacle requires practice to execute smoothly. The finger movements and timing must be precise to maintain the illusion. Kyle Purnell emphasizes the need for quick transitions and recommends practicing thoroughly before performing. While not overly complex, the trick demands attention to detail to ensure a convincing performance.

What Magicians Say

Kyle Purnell highlights the importance of framing the effect and creating moments of clear visual progression. He states, "In close-up, the focus should be on impossibility, whereas stage magic can prioritize aesthetics."

Rich Relish, a mentalist, has used Pinnacle in personalized performances, such as revealing a wedding couple's date through card selections. He notes that the trick can evoke strong emotional reactions when adapted to the audience.

The trick is praised for its visual impact and versatility, though it requires practice to perform effectively.

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's routine aims to bridge the gap between the visual beauty of routines like Garcia's and the impossible feel of Derr's. He emphasizes the importance of framing the effect, particularly for close-up magic, and creating moments of clear visual progression for the audience.

Rich Relish says...

I like to pride myself on people seeing something which they've never seen before. [...] Rich modifies tricks to fit the audience, such as using Brian Caswell’s Pinnacle to reveal a wedding couple’s date through card selections—often evoking strong emotional reactions.

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