Right Before Your Eyes by John Carey

Effect

"Right Before Your Eyes" is a visually stunning card trick where a spectator's chosen card mysteriously appears under their own hand. The magician guides the spectator through a series of actions, including focusing on their card and holding their hand flat over the deck. Despite the spectator's control and the magician's apparent lack of direct interaction, the chosen card appears right where the spectator least expects it. The effect is direct, clean, and leaves the audience in awe as the card seems to materialize "right before their eyes."

Full Details

The trick begins with the magician shuffling a deck of cards and asking the spectator to say "stop" as they riffle through the deck. The card at the stop point is shown to the spectator and remembered. The deck is then placed on the table, and the spectator is instructed to hold their hand flat over it. The magician performs a series of actions, including "hacking the spectator's mind" and casting a shadow over the cards, all while maintaining a playful and engaging presentation. Finally, the spectator lifts their hand to reveal their chosen card has appeared directly beneath it. The method is clever and relies on a combination of subtle techniques and audience management.

Who Should Consider the Trick

"Right Before Your Eyes" is ideal for magicians who enjoy direct, visual effects that play well in close-up or parlor settings. It’s particularly suited for performers who like to engage their audience with a mix of humor and mystery. The trick is versatile and can be adapted to different performance styles, making it a great addition to any magician’s repertoire.

Information on How Difficult It is to Perform

The difficulty level of "Right Before Your Eyes" is moderate. While the method itself is straightforward, the trick requires smooth handling and confident audience management. The magician must be comfortable with the presentation and timing to ensure the effect lands perfectly. Practice is essential to make the actions appear natural and to maintain the spectator’s focus throughout the routine.

What Magicians Say

Magicians have praised "Right Before Your Eyes" for its simplicity and impact. John Carey, the creator, is known for his strong, commercial magic, and this trick is no exception. Reviewers have highlighted the trick’s directness and the fact that it happens "right before the spectator’s eyes," making it a powerful piece of magic. The trick’s playful presentation and clean finish have also been noted as key strengths, making it a favorite among performers looking for a quick, yet impressive, effect. As one reviewer put it, "It’s one of those tricks where you tell the spectator what’s going to happen, they don’t believe it, but it happens right in front of their eyes."