The Original Slow Motion Sandwich Routine by Aaron Fisher

The Original Slow Motion Sandwich Routine

This section details the “Original Slow Motion Sandwich Routine,” a magic trick featured in Aaron Fisher’s The Paper Engine 20th Anniversary Edition.

Effect

The effect presented by this routine involves the apparent production of a sandwich from seemingly nothing. The presentation relies on a deliberate, slowed-down sequence of movements, creating the illusion that the sandwich materializes gradually. The audience observes a series of actions – the manipulation of hands and a small object – that, when executed slowly, create the impression of a sandwich forming before their eyes.

Full Details

The “Original Slow Motion Sandwich Routine” is a self-working effect. It utilizes a concealed object, likely a small card or folded piece of paper, and a specific manipulation technique. The core of the trick lies in the performer’s ability to control the speed and visual flow of their movements. The routine is designed to be performed with a deliberate, almost balletic grace, emphasizing the slow, controlled actions. Fisher highlights the importance of misdirection, directing the audience’s attention away from the hands and towards the overall presentation. The routine’s success depends on the audience perceiving the movements as a natural, unfolding process rather than a series of discrete actions. According to reviewer SaturnMagicShop, the book provides a “toolbox of techniques” for creating this type of deceptive magic.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick is suitable for magicians with a foundational understanding of sleight of hand and misdirection. The slow-motion aspect requires careful control and precision. Reviewer Johnny Thompson notes that the trick’s initial description in the original book was limited, suggesting that mastering the refined version presented in the anniversary edition demands dedicated practice. Magicians who enjoy routines with a strong visual element and appreciate the art of controlled movement will find this trick particularly appealing.

Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform

The “Original Slow Motion Sandwich Routine” is categorized as an intermediate-level trick. While it doesn’t require complex sleight of hand, it demands a high degree of control over speed and timing. The slow-motion presentation necessitates a deliberate and graceful performance style. The Gravity Halfpass, as detailed in the anniversary edition, is presented as a key component to mastering the routine, and mastering this move is considered essential for achieving the desired effect. Fisher emphasizes that the technique has been refined over twenty years, indicating a significant investment in perfecting the method.

What Magicians Say

Aaron Fisher states that the trick is “designed down to where you put each finger” to ensure audience focus remains on the magic itself. He emphasizes that “powerful magic comes from misdirection that is supported by moves that actually help you keep your audience’s attention where you want it to be toward the effect and away from the method.” Fisher’s philosophy, as presented in the video, centers on creating magic that is deceptive and engaging, guiding the audience’s attention to the final effect. He suggests that the technique is a valuable addition to a magician’s repertoire, contributing to the creation of “direct, powerful, and incredibly deceptive magic.”