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Spooked by Nick Einhorn

Created by: Nick Einhorn

Spooked is a mesmerizing close-up card trick where a spectator's chosen card appears to cut itself from the deck and fly out onto the floor, landing face-up in an impossible location. This modern take on the classic 'Haunted Pack' effect combines visual magic with psychological misdirection, making it perfect for both intimate and stage performances. The trick requires minimal setup and can be performed with any borrowed deck, leaving spectators utterly baffled.

Key features

  • Works with any borrowed deck

  • No gimmicks or pre-setup required

  • Can be performed on a table or floor

  • Visual and interactive, perfect for engaging audiences

Pros

  • Highly visual and impossible to forget

  • Versatile for close-up or stage settings

  • Minimal sleight of hand required

  • Leaves no trace or cleanup

Cons

  • Requires practice to perfect the timing and misdirection

  • May need a smooth surface for optimal performance

Effect

The trick "Spooked" creates a striking visual moment where a chosen card appears to move on its own. The magician places the deck on the floor or table, steps away, and the deck visibly cuts itself. The selected card then flies out of the pack, landing face-up in an impossible location. The effect is eerie and impossible to explain, making it a strong piece of magic for performances.

Full Details

"Spooked" is a modern take on the classic "Haunted Pack" effect, where a deck of cards appears to move or cut itself. Nick Einhorn developed this version in the 1990s, refining it for maximum impact. The trick can be performed with a borrowed deck and requires no special gimmicks beyond a common household item. The method is clever, allowing the magician to step away from the deck entirely while the magic happens.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick is ideal for magicians who want a strong, visual piece that plays well in close-up or stand-up settings. It works for both casual and formal performances, making it versatile. Those who enjoy storytelling or spooky-themed magic will find it especially useful.

Difficulty

The method is not overly complex, but it does require smooth handling and confidence in execution. The trick relies more on timing and presentation than difficult sleight of hand. Steve Faulkner noted that after seeing Nick Einhorn perform it repeatedly in a bar setting, he realized it was more approachable than it initially seemed.

What Magicians Say

Steve Faulkner described seeing "Spooked" performed live as a jaw-dropping moment, saying:
"The pack cuts itself and the card flies out in the middle of the back, literally goes and jumps out onto the floor... it completely floored me."

He also mentioned that the trick can be adapted for different presentations, including having the card spin out across the floor or always land face-up. The method allows for flexibility in performance, making it a valuable addition to a magician's repertoire.

For those interested in a visually stunning, self-working effect with a strong magical moment, "Spooked" is a compelling choice.

What people are saying about Spooked

Steve Faulkner (RealMagicReview) says...

Nick Einhorn's 'Spooked' completely floored me—the card literally jumps out of the deck onto the floor, and it’s the most impossible thing I’ve seen in years.

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