Tarbell's Encyclopedia of Magic by Harlan Tarbell

Effect

The audience sees a deck of cards shuffled by a spectator. The magician removes guide cards (Aces and a Joker) and asks the spectator to separate the deck into red and black piles by intuition alone. Despite the spectator freely choosing where each card goes, nearly all end up correctly sorted—except for one or two, which adds realism. The magician then introduces a ring, claiming it influences luck, and repeats the process with the spectator using their non-dominant hand. The result is even more precise, leaving the audience amazed at the seemingly impossible accuracy.

Full Details

Tarbell's Encyclopedia of Magic highlights "Out of This World" as one of the most celebrated card tricks in magic history. Eugene Burger's version refines the classic Paul Curry method by incorporating UF Grant's streamlined turnover technique, eliminating the need for counting and allowing shuffling. A key element is the use of a bizarre prop—a ring—to disable the spectator's dominant hand, forcing them to rely on intuition rather than speed.

The routine includes guide cards (Aces and a Joker) to control the selection process subtly. Burger emphasizes verisimilitude, suggesting that one incorrect prediction enhances believability. The trick also benefits from careful pacing, particularly during the turnover sequence, to maximize impact.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick suits magicians who appreciate classic effects with strong audience reactions. It is ideal for performers who enjoy storytelling and psychological presentation rather than purely technical card work. Those who perform close-up or parlor magic will find it adaptable to various settings.

Difficulty

The method itself is not overly complex, but the presentation requires practice. The turnover technique must appear natural, and the pacing must be deliberate to maintain suspense. Handling the ring convincingly adds an extra layer of performance skill. Magicians familiar with basic card control and presentation will find it manageable, while beginners may need more time to refine the subtleties.

What Magicians Say

Eugene Burger emphasizes refining presentation over inventing new methods, stating, "Great strides have been made with this trick in terms of methods, but very little has been done with it in terms of presentation." He praises UF Grant's turnover method as a significant improvement over Paul Curry's original handling.

Beau Creer highlights the importance of pacing and audience engagement, noting that Burger’s use of the ring "disables your dominant hand so that you can't get ahead of me." This subtlety enhances the trick’s bizarre magic appeal.

Alex Barz, a Chicago bar magician, influenced Burger’s approach by demonstrating the power of mastering a small repertoire. Burger compares it to a concert where audiences prefer classic hits over new material, reinforcing the value of well-executed foundational tricks.

For those looking to elevate their performance of "Out of This World," Burger’s refinements offer a compelling blend of classic methodology and engaging presentation.