Stop It! by Adrian Vega

Effect

"Stop It" by Adrian Vega is a card trick where the magician predicts two cards before the performance begins. Two spectators freely cut and deal the deck, stopping whenever they choose. The cards they stop on match the magician’s predictions exactly. As a finale, the magician spreads the deck to reveal every other card is blank—except for the two selected cards.

Full Details

"Stop It" is a self-working trick, meaning the method requires minimal sleight of hand. The deck is gimmicked, allowing the predictions to align perfectly with the spectators' choices. The participants handle the cards, making the trick feel fair and interactive. The blank deck reveal is a strong visual moment, reinforcing the impossibility of the prediction.

The trick includes a custom deck with a Rider back design. Setup is required before performance, but the reset between performances is minimal. The same two predicted cards are used every time, but spectators can stop at any point in the deck, ensuring a sense of free choice.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick is ideal for performers who enjoy interactive routines with multiple participants. It works well in close-up or table settings where spectators can freely handle the deck. Those who prefer self-working or minimal-sleight tricks will appreciate the method. However, it is not suitable for strolling magic or situations where the deck must be fully examinable.

Difficulty

"Stop It" is easy to perform, with the method relying on the gimmicked deck rather than advanced sleight of hand. The main challenge is managing spectator interaction—ensuring they deal the cards at the same pace. The tutorial by Adrian Vega is thorough, covering setup, performance tips, and handling potential issues.

What Magicians Say

Magic-TV’s Craig and Ryland praised "Stop It" for its strong moments and clever method. Craig gave it 92%, calling it "really strong" and noting the blank deck reveal as a standout feature. Ryland rated it 79%, appreciating the trick but unsure if he would perform it regularly.

Alex Kirk from Monster Magic Shop highlighted the trick’s self-working nature and participant involvement. He compared it to older plots like "Scandal" and "The Grail" but noted the blank deck finale as a unique addition. Kirk emphasized that while the deck cannot be examined, the handling by spectators reduces suspicion.

Overall, "Stop It" is well-regarded for its interactive nature, strong visual payoff, and ease of performance. It’s a solid choice for magicians looking for a reliable prediction effect with a memorable finale.