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The Ambitious Card by Dai Vernon and David Blaine

Created by: Dai Vernon, David Blaine

The Ambitious Card is a classic card magic trick where a spectator's chosen card repeatedly rises to the top of the deck after being placed in the middle. This trick is a staple in close-up magic, known for its visual appeal and the ability to engage the audience through repeated phases of the card 'ambitiously' returning to the top. It's suitable for performers of all levels, from beginners to professionals, and can be performed with any deck of cards.

Key features

  • Classic card magic trick with a simple yet powerful effect

  • Can be performed with any deck of cards

  • Suitable for close-up, parlour, and stage performances

  • Multiple phases allow for building suspense and audience engagement

  • Versatile with many variations and endings available

Pros

  • Highly visual and engaging for the audience

  • Can be adapted to fit any performer's style

  • No special props required beyond a standard deck of cards

  • Strong reactions from spectators

  • Great for building a magician's reputation

Cons

  • Requires practice to perform smoothly and convincingly

  • Some versions may require advanced sleight of hand

  • Can become predictable if not varied or performed with originality

Effect

The Ambitious Card is a classic card trick where a spectator's chosen card repeatedly rises to the top of the deck despite being placed in the middle multiple times. The magician shows the card is lost in the deck, yet it keeps returning to the top, defying logic. The routine often ends with a dramatic reveal, such as the card appearing in an impossible location or the entire deck transforming.

Full details

The Ambitious Card is one of the most iconic plots in card magic. It involves a spectator selecting a card, which is then placed back into the deck. No matter how many times the magician buries the card in the middle, it keeps returning to the top. The trick can be performed with a borrowed deck and requires no gimmicks, though some variations use gimmicked cards for added impact.

Key techniques used in the routine include:

  • Double lifts to show the card is on top when it's not
  • Controls to secretly move the card back to the top
  • False shuffles and cuts to maintain the illusion
  • The Tilt/Depth Illusion (credited to Marlo or Divernon) for deceptive placements

David Blaine popularized a version called the "Froot Loops" trick in his Street Magic Special, which inspired many magicians with its simple yet powerful presentation.

Who should consider the trick

The Ambitious Card is ideal for:

  • Beginners looking for a strong, easy-to-learn card trick
  • Intermediate magicians wanting to refine their technique
  • Professionals seeking a versatile routine that can be adapted to any performance setting
  • Close-up performers who want a reliable, interactive effect
  • Mentalists who can present it as a demonstration of mind control

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The basic version is accessible to beginners, using simple controls and double lifts. More advanced versions incorporating multiple phases and sleights require practice to perform smoothly. PigCake notes it's a "high beginner" effect, while others describe it as intermediate-level when using techniques like the push-off double lift.

The difficulty lies not in the mechanics but in the presentation - making each phase seem impossible while maintaining a natural flow. As Chris Ramsay emphasizes, the trick is about performance and audience engagement more than complex sleight of hand.

What magicians say

  • PigCake praises David Blaine's version: "It gained immense popularity due to its appearance in David Blaine's Street Magic Special, inspiring many magicians."
  • SankeyMagic calls it "a beloved trick where a selected card keeps returning to the top of the deck."
  • magic-tv's Craig Petty highlights its versatility: "Each phase builds on the last, with the card repeatedly rising to the top."
  • RealMagicReview's Steve recommends it as "a versatile and strong opener/closer."
  • Chris Ramsay stresses performance: "The trick's success hinges on creating a sense of genuine surprise and wonder."
  • Dai Vernon considered it a cornerstone of card magic that every serious card magician should master.

The Ambitious Card remains one of magic's most enduring effects because, as PigCake notes, "even seemingly straightforward routines can be incredibly powerful when performed with skill and artistry." Its simplicity and strong impact make it a staple in magicians' repertoires worldwide.

What people are saying about The Ambitious Card

ChrisEdwardsMagic says...

Chris carries versatile items for impromptu magic. He uses a standard deck for multiple tricks, from The Ambitious Card to Chicago Opener.

fiddlinjonny says...

Magic Button includes 56 gaffed cards and a 3-hour tutorial. The tutorial starts with detailed sleight instructions, great for beginners.

magic-tv says...

Craig's version of 'The Ambitious Card' is engaging and humorous. The trick is performed in multiple phases, each more impressive than the last.

MurphysMagicSupplies says...

The routine emphasizes simplicity and deception over complex sleight of hand. The creator draws inspiration from Dai Vernon's teachings on naturalness and simplicity.

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/closer. Sponge balls are highlighted for their universal appeal and strong reactions.

SankeyMagic says...

Learn three techniques for 'The Ambitious Card' trick. Suitable for beginners and advanced magicians. Includes detailed sleight of hand explanations.

VanishingIncMagic says...

Andrew Frost discusses his shift towards performing in curated environments. He emphasizes the importance of collaboration, particularly with directors.

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