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PTSD by Mark Lemon

Created by: Mark Lemon

PTSD (Portal to a Single Destination) by Mark Lemon is a mentalism and close-up card trick where a spectator's thought-of card mysteriously appears inside a sealed envelope. The performer presents an envelope, claims it contains a prediction, and uses a gaffed deck to guide the spectator to select a card mentally. After some interaction, the envelope is opened to reveal the exact card the spectator was thinking of, creating a powerful and baffling revelation. This trick is best suited for close-up, table-hopping, or virtual performances like Zoom, but requires strict 180-degree angles and the props are not inspectable. It comes with high-quality materials including red and black envelopes, plastic reveal cards, and a detailed video tutorial covering method, routining, and scripting.

Where to buy

PTSD by Mark Lemon from Monster Magic
Monster MagicPTSD by Mark Lemon£37.99
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PTSD by Mark Lemon from Alakazam Magic
Alakazam MagicPTSD by Mark Lemon£39.22
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Key features

  • Intermediate difficulty level, requiring practice for gimmick operation and slight-of-hand

  • Compact and portable, easily fits in a wallet for on-the-go performances

  • Uses a novel and devious method not commonly seen in card magic

  • Includes well-explained instructions and high-quality, durable materials

  • Not inspectable and restricted to 180-degree angles, limiting performance settings

  • Costs $45 USD, with potential bonuses like the 'Mind Games' download from certain dealers

Pros

  • Straightforward routine that is easy to learn and perform

  • Novel method that offers a unique twist on card prediction effects

  • High-quality materials ensure durability and professional presentation

  • No 'off by one' moments, making it reliable in performance

  • Well-suited for casual close-up or virtual settings

Cons

  • Props are not inspectable, which may reduce spectator believability

  • Strict 180-degree angle requirements limit versatility in surrounded audiences

  • Requires some memory work and effort to master the gimmick

  • Not ideal for stage or parlor performances; better alternatives exist for larger venues

  • Limited repeatability due to constrained outcomes

Effect

PTSD by Mark Lemon is a mentalism effect where a spectator's freely thought-of playing card appears inside a sealed envelope. The performer introduces an envelope, stating it contains a prediction for later. The spectator uses a special deck to select a card through a simple process. The performer then reveals the envelope, which contains the exact card the spectator was thinking of.

Full details

PTSD, which stands for Portal to a Single Destination, is a self-contained routine. The effect costs $45 USD. The package includes two colored envelopes and durable plastic reveal cards. A video tutorial provides performances, method explanations, and scripting advice. Some retailers may offer bonus digital content with purchase. The method is described as novel and devious, differing from other envelope prediction tricks.

Who should consider the trick

This trick suits magicians who perform close-up magic or virtual shows. It works well for table hopping or online performances. Mentalism performers may find it a useful addition to their repertoire. Magicians looking for a compact, portable prediction effect should consider PTSD. It is not recommended for stage or parlor settings where angles are challenging.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

PTSD is an intermediate level effect. The basic routine is straightforward, but operating the gimmick requires practice. Some sleight of hand is involved. The performer must remember a specific procedure. Angles are restricted to 180 degrees, meaning the audience must be directly in front. The props are not inspectable by spectators. With dedicated rehearsal, most performers can achieve a smooth presentation.

What magicians say

Reviewers highlight the high quality of the materials and clear instructions. One reviewer notes, "The method is novel and devious, unlike anything I've encountered before." However, they also point out limitations, stating, "The envelope and card are not inspectable, which is a significant drawback." Another mentions the angle restrictions, saying it requires "strictly 180-degree angles." Overall, PTSD receives a rating of 7 out of 10 from reviewers, who consider it a good choice for specific performance conditions but not a universal must-have.

What people are saying about PTSD

magicorthodoxy says...

PTSD by Mark Lemon is a trick where a spectator's named card appears in an envelope, part of a diverse range of card magic tools in our giveaway.

magic-tv says...

Craig answers questions about PTSD by Bill Lemon, discussing its place among other effects like torn-and-restored newspaper routines.

MurphysMagicSupplies says...

PTSD by Mark Lemon is highlighted as a card prediction effect in our weekly news roundup, keeping magicians informed on new releases.

sebastiantoca9208 says...

PTSD offers a novel and devious method for a thought-of-card-in-an-envelope routine, but has strict angle requirements and is not inspectable.

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