Tempo Elf by Mental Tom

Effect

Tempo Elf by Mental Tom is a small, remote-controlled reel that uses invisible thread to create impossible movements. The reel is tiny, about the size of a bottle cap, and can be placed anywhere—on a table, ceiling, or other surfaces. With a simple button press, the thread retracts, making objects appear to move on their own. This allows for subtle yet powerful magical moments, such as making a playing card float, a pen roll across a table, or a small object levitate without any visible cause.

Full Details

Tempo Elf is an electronic reel system designed for close-up magic. The reel is compact and discreet, making it easy to conceal. It operates via a remote control, allowing the magician to activate the thread’s movement at the perfect moment. The trick includes multiple routines that demonstrate different ways to use the reel, from floating objects to creating unexpected motion in a performance.

The reel is rechargeable, ensuring long-lasting use, and the invisible thread is strong enough for most small objects while remaining undetectable to spectators. The method is simple to operate, but the effects it produces are highly deceptive.

Who Should Consider the Trick

Tempo Elf is ideal for magicians who perform close-up or table magic and want to add an element of impossible movement to their routines. It works well in restaurant settings, walk-around performances, or even on stage with careful placement. If you enjoy thread-based magic but want a more modern, controlled approach, this is a strong option.

Difficulty

The trick is relatively easy to perform mechanically, as the reel does most of the work. However, proper timing and misdirection are still important to sell the illusion. Those familiar with thread work will adapt quickly, but even beginners can learn the basics with practice. The included instructions provide clear guidance on setup and performance.

What Magicians Say

Nick Locapo from Penguin Magic praised Tempo Elf, calling it "a great option if you work in a close-up table setting and want to add an impossible moment where something moves." He highlighted its small size and remote-controlled function, saying, "This little reel is like the size of a bottle cap, and you can stick it anywhere you want." He also noted that the trick "snuck out this year" but quickly gained attention for its clever method and versatility.

Tempo Elf is a practical, innovative tool for magicians looking to enhance their close-up performances with subtle yet powerful magical effects.