Slow Motion Sandwich by Aaron Fisher

Slow Motion Sandwich: A Detailed Analysis for Magicians

Effect:

The “Slow Motion Sandwich” is a visually arresting walk-around card magic effect. The core of the trick involves a spectator selecting a card from a deck, signing it, and then having that signed card seemingly appear between two blank cards in slow motion. The presentation relies heavily on carefully choreographed movements and a deliberate, almost cinematic, pace to create a sense of wonder and disbelief. The audience witnesses the card’s progression – from its initial appearance, to the back of the card, and finally to the face – all within a controlled, slow-motion sequence.

Full Details:

Craig Petty, as demonstrated in the video, utilizes a specific setup involving two blank cards and a deck of playing cards. A spectator is invited to select a card, sign it, and place it within the deck. The magician then employs a series of precise movements, utilizing the deck and the signed card, to create the illusion of the signed card appearing between the two blank cards. The key element is the “slow motion” aspect, achieved through carefully timed pauses and deliberate hand movements. Aaron Fisher, author of The Paper Engine, emphasizes that this technique, and others within the book, are designed to make sleight-of-hand “invisible” by optimizing finger placement and misdirection, shifting the audience’s focus from the method to the overall effect. The routine is presented as a commercial and engaging performance, designed to elicit strong audience reactions, as highlighted by Petty himself.

Who Should Consider the Trick:

This trick is well-suited for magicians who enjoy walk-around performances and appreciate a visually impressive effect. It’s particularly effective for those who can maintain a controlled pace and deliver a polished presentation. The “Slow Motion Sandwich” demands a degree of precision and timing, making it a good fit for magicians who are comfortable with detailed sleight-of-hand techniques. It’s also beneficial for magicians seeking to elevate their performance with a unique and memorable effect. As Fisher notes, the techniques within The Paper Engine are designed for both seasoned performers and newcomers, offering a “toolbox” of methods to enhance any magician’s repertoire.

Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform:

The “Slow Motion Sandwich” is considered an intermediate-level trick. While the individual movements involved are not overly complex, the overall execution requires careful coordination and timing. The slow-motion aspect adds a significant layer of difficulty, demanding precise control over hand movements and a deliberate pace. As Petty demonstrates, the trick relies on several steps, including the initial appearance of the card, revealing the back, and finally presenting the face. Maintaining the illusion throughout these steps requires practice and attention to detail. Aaron Fisher’s emphasis on optimizing finger placement and misdirection is crucial for achieving a convincing performance. Johnny Thompson, a noted magician and advocate for the book, praised the material as “top notch” and a valuable tool for any serious student of card magic.

What Magicians Say:

• Craig Petty: “This is something that I love performing this this is super fun to perform and walk around uh and it's a really commercial trick.” (Highlights the trick’s engaging nature and suitability for walk-around performances.)
• Aaron Fisher (in The Paper Engine): “It’s designed down to where you put each finger so that your audience can focus on the magic and not your hands.” (Emphasizes the core principle of making sleight-of-hand “invisible” through precise technique.)
• Johnny Thompson: “The material is top notch and will *enhance the repertoire of any serious student of card magic.” (Provides a strong endorsement of the book’s quality and value.)