Title: Vanishing Pen 
Publisher: Sans Minds
MSRP: $30
Skill Level: all
DVD Run time: DVD

Type of effect: Vanishing Pen

Manufacturer's Write Up:

Doing magic with pens has built-in appeal, since everyone carries them, you can borrow them anywhere, and they are universally recognized. 

You cradle a pen within a napkin leaving each end exposed in plain view. The spectator holds the napkin with the pen VISIBLY dangling beneath. You clap your hands together and...instantly...the pen disappears. 

This is a practical, astounding illusion with the simplest of objects.

How accurate is the ad copy? No lies here

What's in the box? DVD, gimmicked pen and normal pen for examination

Key points: Easy to do, learn this within minutes of opening the package, perform it just as fast!

How are the production values: HD shot film, angles, beautiful locations, everything you'd expect in a quality magic product

Is it well made: This is far superior over the Dave Powell version we all used to have ages ago.


Is it well taught: teaching gives you tons of tips, advice and even repair information.

My thoughts (what I personally liked/disliked): I love the ease of performance and the visual image of the pen vanish.

Storage? Does it "pack flat?"  All you need is a pocket to carry it in.

Does it "play big?" I'd do this as a pen vanish after you use the pen in another effect or right before as a "eye catcher" - I think it can play big, but it needs to be framed in a larger presentation besides, "hey, watch this."

How practical is this in the real world? (can it really be done?) This is very practical, you will do this effect all of the time.


Overall score: 9/10

+ If you want to see my full review with even more of my opinions and ideas you can visit this link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sX-WubNxZIA

Title: Stealth Pen       
Publisher: Penguin Magic
MSRP: $20
Skill Level: all
DVD Run time: 1 hour, 11 minutes

Type of effect: Pen through dollar bill

Manufacturer's Write Up: You ask your spectator if you can borrow a dollar. As she's finding her dollar you take out a pen.  With her dollar in your hand, you stab the pen right through. The Pen visually pierces the dollar. Now, with your reputation (and her dollar) on the line you bring the pen and bill even closer. At this point you're RIGHT up close... she's NEVER going to forget this.  With NOTHING obstructing her view you pull the pen right back through the bill. She doesn't even blink. She sees every moment of it. The pen is now completely free from the bill. 

How accurate is the ad copy? This is exactly what happens

What's in the box? DVD and two gimmicked pens

Key points: The bill is completely unharmed and completely examinable!
The pen is instantly completely inspectable, the pen really writes, the cap really fits!

How are the production values: The DVD was filmed back in 2009,but it sill looks timeless.

Is it well made: This is the best "version" of this effect I have ever seen

Is it well taught: Anyone who has seen OZ Pearlman knows what a good teacher he is. The DVD has lots of tricks, advice, handling and tips - you won't be disappointed.

My thoughts (what I personally liked/disliked): Penguin is giving you a massive amount of content for a small gimmicked pen. Purchase the DVD and you'll get a second download from Rick Lax in addition to the DVD.

Storage? Does it "pack flat?" It's the size of any cheap black disposable pen

Does it "play big?" You can get big reactions from this.

How practical is this in the real world? (can it really be done?) That's the best part of this trick - it's so very practical and easy to carry with you.

How original is this idea? Credit where credit is due: The entire effect is based off of Pen thru anything by John Cornelius

Overall score: 9/10

+ If you want to see my full review with even more of my opinions and ideas you can visit this link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TDkZwsbaHhQ

Hey this is a great little add on you should really pick up at Penguin Magic the next time you buy a packet trick or some gaff cards. It keeps your stuff organized, keeps your cards nice and flat and it's a great way to carry them in a pocket. Buy them at Penguin Magic for .75 cents

Title: Lubor Lens
Creator: Lubor Fiedler 
Publisher: Paul Harris Presents
MSRP: $8 (with DVD $15)
Skill Level: All 
DVD length: 13 minutes

Type of effect: Optical Illusion

Manufacturer's Write Up:

Your friend holds a pen on her open palm as you hold a clear "Credit Card Protector" just above the pen. 

You show a bizarre optical illusion...and give the plastic lens a twist. The center of the pen suddenly becomes TRANSPARENT...and then completely INVISIBLE! She can even see right through her spread fingers where the center of the pen was a moment ago! Another twist of the lens and the missing pen center suddenly becomes VISIBLE AGAIN! 

BUT THAT'S JUST THE WARM UP! You then slowly twist the lens again...and in full view the center of the pen visibly DISTORTS...then MELTS into a WEIRD TWISTED MESS!! But this time the optical illusion is REAL...and the weird twisted shape is now a PERMANENT part of the pen...You can even let your friend keep the deformed pen as a souvenir. And yes, it still writes! 

THERE'S NO EXPLANATION!...except that the lens is not a thing you'd want near any of your favorite body parts.

How accurate is the ad copy? Spot on perfect       

What's in the box? Only a clear plastic credit card sized "card"

Key points: Device does ALL the work for you, this trick is ahead of itself before you even start

How are the production values: This is the footage from Paul Harris' Art of Astonishment with Bro Gilbert. Live performances are in a darkened restaurant.

Is it well made: Only one way to make this.

Is it well taught: Very well, Bro Gilbert is slow and soft spoken and covers all you need to know

My thoughts (what I personally liked/disliked): Love this illusion, works great for one on one plus you're always able to leave your spectator with a souvenir.

Storage? Does it "pack flat?" Doesn't get any flatter than this, I keep mine in my wallet.

Does it "play big?" I don't get the reactions Bro does on camera, I think this leaves people with  more of a feeling of wonder than amazement, but its still a fun trick.

How practical is this in the real world? (can it really be done?) Best if done for one person, due to the nature of the effect, it has too many angle issues and is best viewed from above.

Overall score: 9/10

 + If you want to see my full review with even more of my opinions and ideas you can visit this link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jepdQMBMfZw

 

Title: Four Quarters  
Creator: Magick Balay
Publisher: New York Magic Project
MSRP: $ 25
Skill Level: Intermediate
DVD Run time: 34 minutes

Type of effect: Dollar Bill Transformation

Manufacturer's Write Up:

The New York Magic Project is proud to bring you Four Quarters, Magick's take on the classic Mismade Bill effect. You borrow a dollar bill from an audience member. At the tips of your fingers, with the audience carefully studying your every move, the bill is folded into a small packet. When the bill is unfolded, it has turned inside out! The audience can examine the bill. You then re-fold the bill and return it to its original state. 

How accurate is the ad copy? Pretty straight forward, no funny business here.

What's in the box? You get the DVD and one US Currency Mismade Bill

Key points:

Overly in-depth teaching

authentic currency

You will need a standard one dollar bill and a "secret" utility most magicians have

Also included are two little "quicky" finger tricks

 How are the production values:

Magick gives you a straight on shot and an over the shoulder shot in his teaching, this is such a fast effect, but Magick goes over everything you need to know. Live "street" performances, including a "magician's view" live performance.

 Is it well made: The Bill is authentic US currency cut to the same size as a standard bill

Is it well taught: I assumed it was done the way he did it, but what I didn't know was "when" it happened. I first saw Copperfield do the $100 bill switch on his 11th special where he escaped from an imploding building. The bill switch is a John Lovick routine included in his massive book SWITCH. Magick gives credit where credit is due, everywhere he can! He teaches his own version of the switch and he gives you all the details you need.

 My thoughts (what I personally liked/disliked): Magick is just a fun guy to listen to and to watch peform, you can't help but be taken in by his good nature and smooth performance, this is one of those DVDs that is fun to learn from AND watch.

 Storage? Does it "pack flat?"  Carry your mismade bill and "utility" on your person all day long, it doesn't pack much flatter than this.

 Does it "play big?" Even your uncle does a trick with a one dollar bill, but how many people have ever seen a bill fold itself inside out? Use this trick with the mismade, or to turn 1s to 100s or to turn US currency into foreign.

 How practical is this in the real world? (can it really be done?) Absolutely, this is the perfect effect for walk-around or for when someone says "show me a trick."


Overall score: 10/10

 + If you want to see my full review with even more of my opinions and ideas you can visit this link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fF8BPNU6fFs

Title: Any Card to Any Spectator's Wallet
Creator: Jeff Kaylor and Michael Ammar
Publisher: Magic Estate
MSRP: $40
Skill Level: Intermediate
DVD Run time: 15:16

Type of effect: Card to wallet

Manufacturer's Write Up:

Any card is chosen, signed, & placed back into the deck. The spectator takes out his wallet. His signed card is found in his wallet!

 How accurate is the ad copy?

 Pretty close, to be clear - the spectator removes their wallet, but hands it to the Magician and the Magician produces it from the wallet

What's in the box? DVD and Utility (TKO)

Key points:

• No Palming
• Any Signed Card
• Any Deck
• No Stooges
• No Palming
• No Magnets
• No Trick Cards
• No Pulls
• No Special Wallets

 
How are the production values: Shot in HD, well microphones, real live performances, multi-angle studio performances. Teaching is clear and inclusive.

 Is it well made: It is very well made - high quality long lasting gimmick

Is it well taught: I had no idea what it was, but it should be pointed out that if you already have Jeff Kaylor's TKO effect, this is THAT same device.

 My thoughts (what I personally liked/disliked): This is the way a card to wallet should be, no awkward folds, no weird palming

 Storage? Does it "pack flat?" Wearing the gimmick is virtually undetectable, but you will need to be wearing a closed buttoned collard shirt. The device comes in Black, but if you are used to performing in white dress shirts, it is recommended you purchase the white gimmick.

 Does it "play big?"

I think anytime you involve the spectator in another way, it's a good thing. Seeing their chosen signed card coming out of their own wallet is mind-blowing.

 How practical is this in the real world? (can it really be done?)

 No reset, minimal setup, great for walk around in sunlight and indoors.

Overall score: 10/10 "perfect!"

 + If you want to see my full review with even more of my opinions and ideas you can visit this link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SJhYgVxI-KA

Title: Print Card
Creator: Mickael Chatelain
Publisher: Gimick Magic
MSRP: $ 35
Skill Level: intermediate
DVD Run time: 15 min

Manufacturer's Write Up:

A classic of magic within reach of all! Even if you're not a manipulator, this version will fool you as much by its effectiveness as by its simplicity! 

The skill needed to present the classic Chameleon Cards is not easily acquired, so Mickael Chatelain put himself to the task of simplifying the method. 

Well known for his simple and visual effects, today he offers you a new version manageable by anyone! 

How accurate is the ad copy?

The write up is fair, the sleights needed to achieve this effect are minimal and known by most magicians.

What's in the box? Four cards (mine were blue backed Bicycle - 2 gaffs and a gimmick) plus the instructional DVD. You will need a standard deck of cards, including the force card with identical back design to do the trick.

Key points:

·  NO manipulation!

·  The cards really seem to be printed and erased in full view.

·  You use only the four cards that you receive, no others.

·  No glue or magnets.

·  The gimmick takes care of everything and the DVD will explain the workings of the routine in detail.

·  Instant reset.

·  A great classic doable by everyone.

How are the production values: French and English Dub options, all shot with one "behind-the-magician" point of view. All the magic is done by hands against a black card mat

Is it well made: The gaffs are familiar, but the 1 gimmick card is really well made and quite ingenious.

Is it well taught: It's a standard 4 card phase routine that uses a familiar "deal." Mickael goes over everything you need to know to do the trick well.

 My thoughts (what I personally liked/disliked):

 I really liked the ease of this, the routine is very simple

 Storage? Does it "pack flat?"

 The four additional cards and a standard deck are all you need, I just remove 4 random cards from my deck and insert the extras and I am ready to go.

 Does it "play big?"

 The Chameleon card routine is a wonderful classic of magic that is sure to stun audiences.

 How practical is this in the real world? (can it really be done?)

 I think due to the gimmick's design there could be some lighting and angle issues, practice with it and find what works best for you.

Overall score: 8/10

 + If you want to see my full review with even more of my opinions and ideas you can visit this link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DNjDOYlu8Ck

Title: Matrix Pad
Creator: Richard Griffin
Publisher: RG Magic Presents
MSRP: $ 30
Skill Level:
DVD Run time: 33 minutes

Type of effect: Moving ink effect

Manufacturer's Write Up:
A small note pad is shown. Four spots are drawn in each corner of the pad with a sharpie. One by one with the rub of a finger the spots are visibly moved to end up in one corner of the pad. The top sheet with the spots on is now peeled off and given away to examine. 
Includes pad, gimmicks and instructional DVD 
  Quick reset
  No skill required

How accurate is the ad copy? Pretty straight forward, although the video advertisement is a tad deceptive in how it depicts the spots being drawn.

What's in the box? DVD, gimmicked post-it note pad, refill post-it pad and paper insert

Key points: This is a very modern, very original approach to the matrix plot.

How are the production values: Single steady shot on a tripod, no separate angles, and the magician isn't mic'd so it was a little echoy.

Is it well made: The gimmick is as well made as it can be, although it feels a little lack luster and very delicate. For me, it did not work 100% of the time and that's a serious issue for me as a performer.

Is it well taught: Richard spends 33 minutes going over everything, and so I felt it was exhaustive of the material. You certainly walk away from this knowing what he knows.

Storage? Does it "pack flat?" All you need is the gimmicked pad and a normal sharpie marker (not included)

Does it "play big?" Moving ink effects always have that impossible look to them and if performed correctly, you have the opportunity to leave your spectator with an incredible keepsake.

How practical is this in the real world? (can it really be done?) This is where I see this effect take the most heat, it seems outside of Richard's experienced hand, the Matrix Pad doesn't perform as well as it should. Practically, the device has several performance drawbacks - albeit they could be overcome - provided the performer was willing to devote the time to their perfecting.

How original is this idea? The matrix plot is not original, rather the originality comes from Richard's fun approach to it.

Overall score: 6/10

+ If you want to see my full review with even more of my opinions and ideas you can visit this link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d3hOPfM8nZk

Title: Chardistry
Creator: Daniel Chard
Publisher: RSVP Magic
MSRP: $ 30
Skill Level: intermediate - advanced
DVD Run time: 2 hours 9 mins

Type of effect: Card tricks

Manufacturer's Write Up:

Welcome to the brand new DVD 'Chardistry' from the brilliant Daniel Chard. His first release to the magic world was with rsvpmagic under the title 'Chardshark.' This new DVD features 10 stunning routines ranging from very, very easy right through to knuckle busting stuff! Either way, there's something for everyone on this DVD which features live performances and in-depth training that take the DVD to a running time of over 2 hours.

Here's what to expect:

Banter - A commercial comedy opener that can be used at tables, parlor or on stage.

Chard under box - After lots of requests Chard's 4 phase card under box routine fully explained, refined over hundreds of performances.

Homage To Pepe - A suit production with a kicker finish, the finish always generates an amazing response.

Blaze - You visually destroy the deck, all the cards are left in burnt pieces, aside from their selection. Almost self working.

Progressive Revelation - A visual collectors routine, combined with a fusion phase that happens in the spectators hand. Sequential Extension - Multiple selection meets a sandwich effect, a variation of 'Sequential Sandwich' from 'Chardshark'.

Prophecy Transpo - Two selections and the ace of spades. A few visual productions and a surprise finish.

Kickback collectors - Four aces trap three selections, then the three selections visually find the four aces.

Loc-ACE-tion - A visual one at a time ace production.

Dreamweaver - Make all the pips fall off the deck, except for the signed selection. Practically self working!

How accurate is the ad copy? The add copy says there are some "very very easy" tricks, but nothing is "self-working easy." Out of the 10 tricks included I would say that this DVD will be more targeted for someone who knows their way around a deck of cards pretty well.


What's in the box? DVD only

How are the production values: Shot in HG, well microphoned, clear locations, no annoying music in the background

Is it well taught: Daniel goes over everything you need; he spends over 2 hours on 10 tricks! That's about 12 minutes per effect! Daniel also credits previous teachers which is nice.

My thoughts (what I personally liked/disliked): Daniel has an interesting style, he's managed to combine flourishes into his routines which I think is a nice touch. His plots are very creative and I think would certainly entertain people.  The two "easy" effects, Dreamweaver and Blaze I felt had a more "magical/unexplained" plot while the rest of the effects were more "sleight of hand" based.

Overall score: 9/10

+ If you want to see my full review with even more of my opinions and ideas you can visit this link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LFkcvWaA_cQ

Title: Unbelievalope
Creator: Jeff Kaylor
Publisher: The Magic Estate
MSRP: $ 40
Skill Level: all
DVD Run time: 1 hour 11 min

Type of effect: Prediction Envelope

Manufacturer's Write Up:

The Unbelievalope is a specially engineered envelope that allows you to predict future events or make cards travel through space and time. 

Imagine handing a spectator an envelope with a written prediction seen inside. Randomly chosen audience members freely name anything; favorite foods, destinations, celebrities, dates, or any personal information only they would know. Then, unbelievably, you reveal those exact details in your prediction! 

OR, your envelope can clearly display a single playing card in full view. Then any card from any deck is signed and lost in the shuffle. Again, unbelievably, the card that is visibly removed from the envelope is the card just signed by the spectator! 

You'll get over an hour of professional instruction that teaches multiple applications.

Plus several custom designed, high quality Unbelievalopes that can replace prediction systems that cost thousands of dollars without needing a secret assistant. So if you're looking for something to close your show that packs small but can entertain from 2 to 2,000 people, and who isn't, then you need Jeff Kaylor's Unbelievalope.

How accurate is the ad copy? Very accurate

What's in the box? Cardboard sleeve with download code plus 3 utilities

Key points: To be clear...this is an envelope with an almost full front window that's designed to switch any object that's in full view under seemingly impossible conditions.

How are the production values: Jeff keeps all of his teaching videos online, this allows him to create a community of thinkers as well as continually update and add to the teaching so that the performer always has the latest information. Videos are all shot in HD, with multiple views and locations.

Is it well made: Very well made, keep in mind it is an envelope and made from similar materials - plus there is some "arts and crafts"  involved to make the device ready.

Is it well taught: Jeff is a good teacher and shares a wealth of his ideas. Effects taught include a card to envelope, open predictions, paradox card and how to constuct your own envelopes.

My thoughts (what I personally liked/disliked): I liked the visual of this effect, the large prediction window allows for a highly memorable picture and the added bonus of the spectator's seeing your hand go in to retrieve the item adds to the impossible reveal.

Storage? Does it "pack flat?" It's the size of a larger mailing envelope on par with a credit card application envelope or your W2.

Does it "play big?" I think impossible looking magic always plays big, in the right setting this is a mind scrambling effect.

How practical is this in the real world? (can it really be done?) only the envelope is needed, but this is a larger size envelope and is really better suited for stage and parlor.

How original is this idea? The idea of a prediction envelope is not new of course, the "device" itself reminds me a lot of Mark Mason's Mirage Wallet.

Overall score: 9/10

+ If you want to see my full review with even more of my opinions and ideas you can visit this link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LFR-nu3iij8