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Tic Tac by Mickael Chatelain and André Prato

Created by: Mickael Chatelain, André Prato

Vortex is a close-up magic trick where a spectator signs a single Tic Tac, which is then placed inside a card case, inserted into a Tic Tac box, and finally into another card case. Upon opening the final card case, the Tic Tac is revealed to bear the spectator's signature. The trick uses only three readily available items: a Tic Tac, a Tic Tac box, and a card case, all of which can be examined by the spectator before and after the effect. The creators emphasize the lack of switches or sleight of hand, making the effect seem 'totally impossible' and 'absolutely regular'.

Key features

  • Uses everyday objects (Tic Tac, Tic Tac box, card case)

  • No switches or sleight of hand required

  • All items can be examined by the spectator

  • Easy to perform, suitable for a wide range of magicians

  • Creates a moment of genuine astonishment

Pros

  • Highly deceptive and impossible effect

  • Simple to perform with minimal setup

  • Uses examinable props

  • Suitable for close-up performances

Cons

  • May require careful handling to maintain the illusion

  • Limited to performances where a Tic Tac and card case are appropriate

Effect

The Tic Tac trick creates an impossible moment where a signed Tic Tac appears inside a sealed card case and Tic Tac box. A spectator signs a single Tic Tac, places it inside a card case, and then inserts that case into a Tic Tac box. The box is then placed inside another card case. When opened, the signed Tic Tac is revealed inside, despite no switches or sleights being used.

Full Details

The trick uses only three common items: a Tic Tac, a Tic Tac box, and a standard card case. Everything can be examined before and after the effect, reinforcing the impossibility. The method is described as "super easy" to perform, requiring no advanced sleight of hand. The slow reveal builds suspense, making the effect even more baffling.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick is ideal for magicians who want a quick, visual, and self-contained effect that plays well in casual settings or social media. It’s particularly suited for performers who prefer minimal props and maximum impact. Since it requires no difficult moves, it’s accessible to beginners but still strong enough for experienced magicians looking for a deceptive impromptu piece.

Difficulty

The trick is rated as easy to perform. There are no complex sleights or switches, making it suitable for all skill levels. The main challenge lies in presentation—timing and misdirection enhance the effect, but the method itself is straightforward.

What Magicians Say

  • SaturnMagicShop describes it as "totally impossible" and emphasizes that all props can be examined, making it highly deceptive. They highlight the simplicity, calling it "super easy" to perform.
  • Another reviewer mentions that while the method is ingenious, the trick may be best suited for social media due to its quick, visual nature. They note that in live performances, careful handling is needed to prevent exposure upon close examination.

Overall, Tic Tac is praised for its clever method and strong visual impact, making it a solid choice for magicians who want a baffling yet easy-to-perform effect.

What people are saying about Tic Tac

Mark Travison says...

The creators' focus on the impossibility and examinability of the props suggests a strong emphasis on fooling the audience rather than relying on complex technique.

SaturnMagicShop says...

The effect is described as 'super easy' to perform and involves a signed Tic Tac appearing inside a series of card cases and a Tic Tac box, with all items examinable before and after.

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