Unorthodox by Antonio Martinez and Alakazam

Created by: Antonio Martinez, Alakazam

Unorthodox is a fresh take on the classic invisible deck trick, but with a playful twist using UNO cards. A spectator names any card, and when the deck is spread, one card is found reversed—exactly the one they named. This is a close-up magic trick that stands out due to its vibrant, colorful presentation, making it particularly appealing for family-friendly or casual settings. The deck is durable, and the selected card is examinable, adding to the trick's credibility. Buyers should note that while it follows the invisible deck principle, it requires an extra step compared to the traditional version, slightly reducing the 'any card' fairness but enhancing the overall fun and visual appeal.

Key features

Uses UNO cards for a unique, colorful twist on the invisible deck
Durable and examinable cards
Great for family-friendly or casual performances
Requires an extra step compared to the classic invisible deck

Pros

Vibrant and visually engaging
Durable and well-made cards
Examinable selected card
Kid-friendly and fun presentation

Cons

Not as 'any card' fair as the classic invisible deck
Requires an extra step in the routine

Effect

The trick "Unorthodox" by Antonio Martinez is a fresh take on the classic invisible deck effect. A spectator names any card, and when the magician spreads through a deck of UNO cards, one card is found reversed—the exact card the spectator named. The twist is that the deck consists of colorful UNO cards, making the effect visually striking and unexpected.

Full Details

"Unorthodox" uses a modified UNO deck to achieve the invisible deck principle. Unlike the traditional version, this trick introduces a playful presentation where the magician can claim that the wrong deck was accidentally brought—perhaps mixed up by kids. The named card appears reversed among the UNO cards, creating a surprising and memorable moment.

The deck is well-made, with durable cards that can be examined. The handling is easier than a standard invisible deck, though it requires an extra step in the method, making it slightly less "fair" in terms of pure spectator freedom. However, the presentation and visual appeal compensate for this minor limitation.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick is ideal for magicians who want a fun, colorful alternative to the invisible deck. It works well in family-friendly settings, such as kid’s parties or casual gatherings, where the bright UNO cards add to the entertainment. Performers who enjoy storytelling or playful presentations will appreciate the flexibility of the "wrong deck" premise.

Difficulty

"Unorthodox" is easier to perform than a traditional invisible deck, making it accessible to beginners. The main challenge is adjusting to the slight difference in method, which requires an extra step compared to the classic version. However, the handling is straightforward, and the visual impact makes it worth the minor adjustment.

What Magicians Say

Steve Faulkner from RealMagicReview praises the trick for its vibrant, kid-friendly appeal and durable construction. He notes that while it’s not as "fair" as the original invisible deck due to an extra step, the presentation and unique twist make it a standout. He says, "It feels different, it’s colorful, and it’s fun to perform." The playful premise—claiming the wrong deck was brought—adds an extra layer of entertainment.

Overall, "Unorthodox" offers a fresh, visually engaging take on a classic effect, making it a great choice for performers looking for something new and lively.

What people are saying about Unorthodox

Steve Faulkner (RealMagicReview) says...

Unorthodox is a clever take on the invisible deck trick using UNO cards. It's colorful, feels happy, and is great for kids—just a fresh, visually engaging alternative to the traditional invisible deck.