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That's Ridiculous by Paul Gertner

Created by: Paul Gertner

That's Ridiculous is a close-up coin magic routine where the magician visibly and impossibly causes a coin to penetrate through a solid table surface. The spectator sees the coin placed on the table, and with a simple gesture, it drops through to the magician's waiting hand below, creating a moment of pure astonishment. This is one of Paul Gertner's signature routines from his acclaimed book 'Steel and Silver', known for its directness and powerful visual impact, making it ideal for close-up performances where strong, visual magic is desired.

Key features

  • Close-up coin magic routine

  • Visual coin-through-table effect

  • Part of Paul Gertner's 'Steel and Silver' book collection

  • Suitable for close-up performances

  • Known for its directness and strong visual impact

Pros

  • Highly visual and astonishing effect

  • From a master magician with proven performance credentials

  • Well-documented in a comprehensive magic book

Cons

  • Requires access to 'Steel and Silver' book for learning

  • May need practice to master the technique

Effect

The audience sees a magician place a coin on the table. The magician then covers the coin with a playing card. When the card is lifted, the coin has vanished. The magician then reveals the coin in an impossible location, such as inside a previously examined and empty glass. The entire sequence happens in a direct and visual way, making the coin's journey seem ridiculous.

Full details

That's Ridiculous is a coin magic routine created by Paul Gertner. It is a published effect found in his book, Steel and Silver. The trick involves the magical transposition of a coin. The method is clever and uses standard magician's props. The routine is structured to be performed in a close-up setting. The effect is known for its strong visual impact and logical progression.

Who should consider the trick

Magicians who perform close-up magic should consider this trick. It is suitable for those who use coins in their acts. Performers looking for a direct and powerful visual effect will find it valuable. It is a good choice for magicians who want a reputation-making routine from a respected source.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The trick requires a medium level of skill to perform. It involves standard sleight of hand techniques. Practice is needed to achieve a smooth performance. The method is not overly complex, but proper timing is important. A magician with some experience in coin magic will be able to learn it.

What magicians say

The trick is featured in Paul Gertner's book, which is described as a comprehensive collection from a master magician. The book includes over 20 coin routines, with That's Ridiculous listed as a highlighted effect. The material is presented as closely-guarded and reputation-making. The new edition of the book includes an essay where Gertner provides insights on how he has updated and refined his routines over the decades. This suggests the trick has been tested and improved for professional performance.

What people are saying about That's Ridiculous

AlakazamMagicUK says...

The book includes over 20 coin routines and 16 card routines, with specific tricks like Reverse Assembly and That's Ridiculous. [...] This promotion positions Steel and Silver not just as a collection of tricks, but as an essential volume from a master magician.

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