Regular readers will no I have a fondness for variations on the ACAAN (Any Card At Any Number) plot, which is exactly what we have here. Strictly speaking it is a Card At Any Number, and we like it a lot…
The effect looks like this. A spectator looks after an envelope with a prediction in it. Then they choose a number, deal down to that number in a pack of cards which the performer doesn’t handle at all, and the cards match. It’s that clean.
In almost all variations of this kind of plot there is some limiting going on somewhere – and without wanting to give too much away, it is fair to say that the choice of number isn’t completely free. On the other hand, if you perform it well the spectator will believe that it is – and that is all that matters.
The handling is very clean. There is only one prediction card in the envelope and the performer is truly hands off with the deck of cards – the spectator can do all the handling. It is exactly the type of magic I enjoy – which employs devious yet simple cunning to create the effect of real magic.
If I had one criticism it is that the explanation is slightly laboured – but to be fair that means that is it thorough – it probably just means I am a bit impatient!. It is certainly very clear and there is no ambiguity.
The DVD includes a pdf which explains the original routine and several variations – gambling, tarot, two deck, etc. etc. Some of these are very intriguing and will certainly set your mind working about how to utilise this clever routine in a way which suits your style. There is also an ebook explaining Rus’s original ‘psychological’ handling – which is not 100% guaranteed but will provide a stunning result if it works!
All in all there is a lot to like about it. It has simplicity of method – though does requires a little memory work. It all takes place in the spectator’s hand. It resets instantly. Good instructions and explanation. And at £15.99 over at MagicTao it seems like a bargain.
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