The Grail by Mike Rose

Effect

The Grail is a card trick where a spectator names any number from 1 to 52. The magician shows a face-down prediction card. The spectator deals cards from a shuffled deck and stops at their chosen number. The card at that position matches the prediction exactly. The trick looks like a perfect match between a freely chosen number and a pre-written prediction.

Full details

The Grail is a card at any number effect. A spectator picks a number. The magician has a prediction ready. The spectator deals cards to that number in the deck. The card there always matches the prediction. The trick uses gaffed cards for the effect. No sleight of hand is required. The method is clean and looks fair. The spectator handles the deck during the deal. The trick works with any number and any deck. Versions include close-up, stage, and impromptu performances. The impromptu version works with a borrowed and shuffled deck. Some versions use two decks for added impact. The trick has multiple routines like Grail Gold and Grail Synergy.

Who should consider the trick

The Grail suits magicians who perform close-up or stage magic. It is good for those who want a strong card trick with a clean method. It works for performers who like audience participation. The trick is ideal for magicians who present to couples or groups. It is also suitable for mentalism acts. Beginners can learn it because no sleight of hand is needed. Experienced magicians will appreciate its fooling power.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The Grail is straightforward to perform. It requires no sleight of hand. The method uses gaffed cards, so handling is simple. Practice is needed to master the presentation and pacing. The impromptu version may need more familiarity with the method. The two-deck version adds some complexity but is manageable. Overall, the trick is easy to learn and use in real performances.

What magicians say

Magicians praise The Grail for its cleanliness and impact. Brian Lloyd calls it a standout effect with deceptive cleanliness. He says it gets strong reactions from other magicians. Reviewers note its versatility for different settings. The trick fools experienced magicians according to multiple sources. Gareth from Mentalist OAS says the set reignited his passion for card magic. Mike Rose and Peter Nardi developed the trick over 20 years, refining it for modern use. The impromptu version is highlighted as a game-changer for borrowed deck situations. Craig Petty describes it as a crowd-pleaser. Overall, magicians consider The Grail a must-have for card magic enthusiasts.