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The Spectator Makes A Prediction! by SeanDevine

Created by: SeanDevine

The Spectator Makes A Prediction! is a captivating close-up card trick that involves a spectator making a seemingly free choice and prediction. The magician hands a shuffled deck to a spectator, who then selects a card face down without looking at it. The magician spreads the cards face down, and the spectator calls 'stop' at any point. The magician then reveals that if the spectator's chosen card is, for example, the 10 of Clubs, the card they stopped on must be the 10 of Spades. This trick can be performed with or without a marked deck, offering flexibility in performance. It's a blend of prediction and card magic, designed to engage the spectator directly in the magical moment.

Key features

  • Can be performed with or without a marked deck (Garrett Thomas GT Speed Reader mentioned)

  • Utilizes a self-working control and a Running Crosscut Force inspired by Ed Marlo's Drop Slight

  • Emphasizes natural and casual handling to mask the mechanics

  • Encourages the study of magic literature for creative inspiration

  • Performance tips include motivation, casual handling, and justification for actions

Pros

  • Highly engaging for spectators as they participate in the prediction

  • Flexible performance options with or without a marked deck

  • Encourages creative thinking and adaptation of magical principles

  • Detailed performance tips provided for a smooth execution

Cons

  • Requires practice to master the Running Crosscut Force and other techniques

  • Performance may be less clean without a marked deck

  • Some magicians may prefer more straightforward methods over the described techniques

Effect

In The Spectator Makes A Prediction!, a spectator shuffles a deck of cards and freely selects one face down without looking. The magician spreads the deck and asks the spectator to call "stop" at any point. The magician then reveals that if the spectator's chosen card is, for example, the 10 of Clubs, the card they stopped on must be the 10 of Spades. The effect appears completely fair, with no obvious forces or suspicious moves.

Full Details

The trick relies on a combination of techniques to create a convincing prediction effect. While it can be performed with a marked deck (such as the Garrett Thomas GT Speed Reader), it can also be adapted for an unmarked deck with slight adjustments.

Key components include:

  • Self-Working Control: The spectator's chosen card is controlled to a specific position in the deck without overt manipulation.
  • Running Crosscut Force: Inspired by Ed Marlo's Drop Slight, this method allows the magician to subtly place the desired card where the spectator stops during the spread.
  • Natural Patter: The magician justifies actions by framing them as part of the prediction process, making the handling appear casual and fair.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick is ideal for magicians who:

  • Enjoy prediction-based effects with strong audience participation.
  • Prefer routines that can be performed impromptu or with minimal setup.
  • Are comfortable with card controls and forces, though the method is designed to minimize difficult sleights.
  • Want a trick that can be adapted for both marked and unmarked decks.

Difficulty

The trick is moderately easy to perform, with the main challenge being smooth execution of the Running Crosscut Force. The handling is designed to be natural, reducing the need for advanced sleight-of-hand. Magicians familiar with basic card controls and forces will find it accessible, while beginners may need practice to make the actions appear effortless.

What Magicians Say

SeanDevine, who developed the routine, emphasizes the importance of studying magic literature for inspiration. He states, "The best advice I could give somebody who wants to create magic is to read every magic book you can get your hands on... even if you don't necessarily like the trick, you might find a principle you can apply elsewhere."

He also highlights the value of natural handling: "The routine should appear impromptu and relaxed, masking the underlying mechanics." The Running Crosscut Force is praised for its deceptive simplicity, making the trick feel fair and impossible to reverse-engineer.

Overall, The Spectator Makes A Prediction! is a clever combination of existing principles adapted into a fresh and engaging effect.

What people are saying about The Spectator Makes A Prediction!

SeanDevine says...

The best advice that I could give somebody who wants to create Magic is to read every magic book that you can get your hands on [...] even if you don't necessarily like the trick that's being talked about you might come across a little gem or a nugget of gold or an idea or a principle you can apply to different things.

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