Wednesday, March 01, 2006

Paul Wilson: Martini


Here's the advertisement: "The spectator names any card. They name any number from one to fifty two. Guess where there card is? Paul’s amusing presentation brings this powerhouse effect within anyone’s reach. When the time is right, the spectator deals to the cards and finds their thought of card exactly where they wanted it! Absolutely no sleight of hand - just a devilishly simple approach. This is one of Paul’s favorite routines for any audience.

Difficulty: Beginner to Intermediate"

Obviously, this is Paul's take on the "Any Card at Any Number" card effect. The PDF file explaining the routine is available for instant download at rpaulwilson.com. Just click the Circle Of Confidence tab on the left side of the page. The cost is only $5.

Let me begin by saying that this is a clever approach to this popular plot. There is no sleight of hand, but you will have to practice to get it to flow smoothly and there are some mental calculations involved that will definitely turn some people off. Also, it is not an anytime, anywhere effect. Although the deck is not gaffed, there is a setup involved. Basically, you must be proficient with a memorized deck to be able to perform this routine, although Paul briefly describes an easier alternative that some may find more practical.

Paul's wonderful routining helps disguise the method of the trick, but you should be aware that it is not as direct as it sounds in the advertisemtent above. The spectator does not simply name a card and number and immediately count down to reveal the selection. Rather, the somewhat clever presentation covers the "work" that must be done.

Honestly, this is probably not something I will ever perform, but I'm sure Paul and others can make this trick kill. Maybe it will work for you. It is only a $5 investment to learn a simple, yet effective approach to this plot. Recommended (based on the price.)

-Available from www.RPaulWilson.com