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The Ambitious Card by Dai Vernon, David Blaine, and Various magicians over history

Created by: Dai Vernon, David Blaine, Various magicians over history

The Ambitious Card is a classic close-up card magic trick where a spectator selects and signs a card, which then repeatedly and impossibly rises to the top of the deck after being placed in the middle or lost in the deck. This effect, often performed in multiple phases, creates a strong sense of wonder and impossibility, making it a staple in card magic. It can be adapted for various settings, from casual gatherings to formal performances, and typically involves techniques like double lifts, controls, and misdirection to enhance the illusion. Buyers should note that while some versions are beginner-friendly, others require advanced sleight of hand skills.

Key features

  • Versatile trick suitable for close-up magic

  • Can be performed with a standard or borrowed deck

  • Multiple phases build suspense and impact

  • Relies on techniques like double lifts and card controls

  • Highly customizable with various routines and presentations

  • Ideal for both beginners and advanced magicians with practice

Pros

  • Strong visual impact and audience engagement

  • No special props needed for basic versions

  • Easy to learn foundational versions for beginners

  • Highly deceptive when performed well

  • Can be combined with other card tricks for longer routines

Cons

  • Advanced versions require significant practice and skill

  • May become predictable if overused or poorly presented

  • Some methods are angle-sensitive and require careful handling

  • Not all variations are self-working; sleight of hand is often necessary

Effect

The Ambitious Card is a classic card magic routine where a spectator selects a card, which is then placed into the middle of the deck. Despite this, the card repeatedly rises to the top of the deck. The effect can include phases where the card is signed, torn, or otherwise marked, yet it continues to return to the top, defying all logic. The routine often ends with a visual and surprising climax, such as the card appearing in an impossible location or the entire deck transforming.

Full details

The Ambitious Card is one of the most enduring plots in card magic. It involves a series of techniques that allow the performer to control the selected card back to the top of the deck after each phase. Key moves often include the double lift, the pass, and various controls and switches. The routine is highly customizable, with many performers adding their own phases and presentations. It can be performed with any deck of cards, and advanced versions may incorporate gimmicks or additional props for heightened impact.

Who should consider the trick

The Ambitious Card is suitable for magicians of all skill levels. Beginners can start with simpler versions that use basic controls and double lifts, while experienced performers can explore more complex handlings and presentations. It is ideal for close-up and parlor settings, and its repetitive nature makes it engaging for audiences. Mentalists may also adapt the routine to fit a mind-reading or prediction theme.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The difficulty of The Ambitious Card varies based on the methods used. Basic versions require foundational card skills such as the double lift, control to the top, and some form of false shuffle. These can be learned with moderate practice. Advanced routines may involve sleights like the pass, tilt, or other sophisticated moves, demanding greater dexterity and timing. Overall, the trick is accessible to beginners but offers depth for those seeking to master finer details.

What magicians say

Magicians widely regard The Ambitious Card as a cornerstone of card magic. PigCake notes that David Blaine’s performance emphasizes simplicity and audience engagement, proving that a well-presented routine can be incredibly powerful. He states, "Blaine’s genius lay not just in the moves themselves, but in shifting the focus from the magician to the audience’s reactions." SankeyMagic describes it as a versatile plot, offering multiple techniques and presentations to suit different styles. He teaches methods ranging from basic to advanced, ensuring magicians can grow with the routine. Craig Petty highlights its suitability for various performers, from hobbyists to professionals, due to its strong audience impact and adaptability.

What people are saying about The Ambitious Card

AlakazamMagicUK says...

Alakazam Unlimited offers a vast archive of magic from top creators, making it an essential resource for magicians of all levels at an affordable price.

CardMechanic says...

The trick relies on a specific card arrangement and clever setup, emphasizing storytelling and building suspense for a deceptive oil and water effect.

fiddlinjonny says...

Magic Button includes 56 gaffed cards and a 3-hour tutorial, making it ideal for beginners with routines like The Ambitious Card and Triumph.

lloydb says...

Tobias Dostal’s Liquify is a novel magic effect involving melting and reforming a ring, praised for its versatility and creativity in close-up magic.

magic-tv says...

Craig's version of The Ambitious Card is engaging and humorous, with multiple phases that build to a strong finish using a crimped card for impact.

MurphysMagicSupplies says...

Ammar emphasizes the importance of misdirection and presentation, advising magicians to avoid associating the effect with cards coming to the top to enhance mystery.

PigCake says...

Blaine's genius lay not just in the moves themselves, but in shifting the focus from the magician to the audience's reactions – a revolutionary approach at the time.

RealMagicReview says...

Steve recommends The Ambitious Card as a versatile and strong opener or closer, highlighting its ability to defy logic with a signed card repeatedly rising to the top.

SankeyMagic says...

Learn three techniques for The Ambitious Card, including the top change and Marlo's tilt, making it accessible for all skill levels in card magic.

SaturnMagicShop says...

The routine extracts an image from the spectator's mind, not just a word, leveraging psychological influence and suggestion for a compelling mentalism effect.

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