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The Spread Force by Reid Ferry

Created by: Reid Ferry

The Spread Force is a card magic trick that allows the magician to control a spectator's choice seemingly without any interference. It's a variation of the Hofzinser spread force, designed to look completely fair as the spectator touches a card freely, yet the magician retains total control. This trick is perfect for close-up magic performances, offering a blend of technical skill and psychological subtlety to create a powerful illusion of free choice.

Key features

  • Modified handling of the Hofzinser spread force for a more natural look

  • Spectator touches a card freely, enhancing the illusion of fairness

  • Ideal for close-up magic performances

  • Combines technical skill with psychological subtlety

Pros

  • Looks completely fair to the spectator

  • Retains total control over the selection

  • Enhances the illusion of free choice

  • Suitable for various performance settings

Cons

  • Requires practice to master the modified handling

  • May not be suitable for beginners due to its reliance on subtlety and timing

Effect

The Spread Force is a card force that appears completely fair to the audience. A spectator freely touches a card in a spread deck, yet the magician retains full control over the selection. The method secretly replaces the touched card with the forced card during the lift, making it seem impossible for the magician to have influenced the choice.

Full Details

The Spread Force is a modified handling of the Hofzinser spread force. It mimics the classic force by allowing the spectator to touch any card while ensuring the magician can still force the desired one. The key moment happens when the card is lifted, where the spectator's selection is subtly replaced.

Reid Ferry highlights this technique in his performance breakdown, praising its deceptive simplicity. He explains that the method looks fair because the spectator interacts with the deck naturally, without any suspicious moves from the magician.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This force is ideal for magicians who want a reliable, deceptive method for controlling a card selection. It works well in both casual and formal performances, especially when combined with other card routines. Performers who value clean, audience-tested methods will appreciate its psychological effectiveness.

Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform

The Spread Force requires moderate skill in card handling. The replacement action must be smooth and undetectable, which means practice is essential. However, once mastered, it becomes a powerful tool in a magician's arsenal. Reid Ferry notes that the technique is worth the effort because of its convincing appearance.

What Magicians Say

Reid Ferry describes the Spread Force as looking "completely fair" because the spectator touches a card freely while the magician maintains control. He emphasizes its deceptive nature, stating that it eliminates suspicion by making the selection process seem entirely in the spectator's hands.

This force is particularly useful in routines where a convincing, hands-off selection is needed. Performers who want to refine their technical and psychological approach will find it valuable.

What people are saying about The Spread Force

Reid Ferry says...

Magic is created in the mind. Magic is a feeling. Magic is a thought.

Tutorial videos