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Surreal Killer by John Bannon

Created by: John Bannon

Surreal Killer is a multi-phase close-up card trick by John Bannon that transforms a packet of six blank cards into a series of surreal and impossible visual changes. Spectators see the magician start with fully blank cards, then one instantly prints with the phrase 'This Is Not A Hole,' followed by blank cards developing large, physical holes one by one, with the magician declaring 'This is a hole!' as each drops to the table. When the hole cards are turned face up, their backs reveal printed artistic statements, and the final blank card shows the word 'WHOLE,' creating a clever verbal and visual pun. The trick ends clean with all cards examinable, making it a baffling and self-contained pocket miracle suitable for various performance settings. Buyers should note it requires practice and comes with video instructions teaching the necessary sleights.

Where to buy

Surreal Killer by John Bannon from Monster Magic
Monster MagicSurreal Killer by John Bannon£21.99
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Key features

  • Multi-phase packet trick with six specially printed cards

  • Transforms blank cards into printed phrases and physical holes

  • Ends clean with all cards examinable

  • Requires only two basic sleights, taught in video instructions

  • Self-contained and portable in a protective wallet

  • Suitable for beginners to professionals

  • Allows for personal performance style adaptation

Pros

  • Visually appealing and surreal effects

  • Accessible for various skill levels

  • Portable and easy to carry

  • Ends clean for examination

  • Comes with instructional video

Cons

  • Requires practice to master

  • May not be beginner-friendly for those unfamiliar with basic sleights

Effect

The audience sees a packet of six blank cards. The magician snaps their fingers, and one card instantly prints with the phrase "This Is Not A Hole." The magician then shows other blank cards. One by one, these blank cards visibly develop large, physical holes through their centers. The magician places each hole card on the table. After three hole cards are produced, the magician turns them face up. Their previously blank backs now show printed artistic statements. Finally, the last remaining blank card is turned over to reveal the word "WHOLE" printed on it. All cards can be handed out for examination at the end.

Full details

Surreal Killer is a multi-phase packet trick. It uses six specially printed cards that are self-contained and come in a protective wallet. The routine transforms blank cards. They change by printing phrases and developing physical holes. The trick ends clean, with all cards being examinable. The method requires only two basic sleights. These sleights are taught in the video instructions included with the trick.

Who should consider the trick

Surreal Killer is suitable for beginners to professionals. Its method is accessible, but the routine is structured for deep impact. Performers who want a self-contained, portable trick will find it practical. Magicians who enjoy adapting routines to their personal style will appreciate the room for customization that Surreal Killer offers.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The trick requires practice. It uses two basic sleights. The video instructions teach these moves. BigBlindMedia states the trick is suitable for beginners. magic-tv notes that Surreal Killer is clever but may require practice to perform smoothly. The complexity is manageable for most skill levels with dedicated rehearsal.

What magicians say

magic-tv reviewers Craig and Ryland highlight that Surreal Killer is clever. They note its method may require practice. BigBlindMedia describes it as a multi-phase packet trick that is self-contained and portable. They state it is suitable for beginners to professionals and allows for personal performance style adaptation. BigBlindMedia also confirms the trick ends completely clean with all cards examinable.

What people are saying about Surreal Killer

BigBlindMedia says...

Surreal Killer is a multi-phase packet trick that transforms blank cards into surreal, impossible statements and physical changes, ending clean with all cards examinable.

magic-tv says...

Surreal Killer by John Bannon is clever but requires practice.

Performance videos

Review videos