link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g8kkzDoKPkw

Good luck

Review link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6RHkFk45rEM

Purchase a deck: http://www.penguinmagic.com/p/6436

Purchase a brick: http://www.penguinmagic.com/p/6437

Snow falling softly outside while you sit by a roaring fire sipping hot chocolate, peaceful music surrounding you and your family, Santa and his reindeer bounding from rooftop to rooftop, kids building a snowman outside - these are all things that come to mind when we think of Christmas.

This holiday season celebrate by purchasing a beautiful Christmas-themed deck that is bursting with holiday cheer. This deck has 100% custom artwork by Natalia Silva, the Christmas Deck is sure to warm your heart and bring a smile to your face as you gaze upon the images of Santa, reindeer, snowmen, presents, and of course penguins!

Cut, Stock & Finish: http://tinyurl.com/USPCCcutandfinish

The song featured in this video is "Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairies" from the Nutcracker Suite

Merry Christmas

Title: Over This World      _               
Creator: Alex Pandrea
Publisher: the Blue Crown
MSRP: $ 20
Skill Level: beginner
DVD Run time: 33 minutes

Type of effect: card trick

Manufacturer's Write Up:

A shuffled deck is handed to the spectator. They remove a card from anywhere in the deck. Without looking at, or touching the cards the magician is able to name the color of the card. This is repeated as many times as you wish. The magician then starts to separate all the black cards from all the red cards without looking at the deck. For the finale, the deck is shuffled again and now the spectator separates the colors in their hands.
 
How accurate is the ad copy? This is pretty much what happens - although this is not a "true" shuffled deck.

What's in the box? A DVD

Key points: Entry level magic
 
How are the production values: Good, shot well, nice angles and nice location.

Is it well taught: Alex takes his time and gives you everything you need to know.
 
Storage? Does it "pack flat?" only a deck of cards is used
 
Does it "play big?" I love the "out of this world" scenario and Alex's opener is a killer
 
How practical is this in the real world? (can it really be done?) Absolutely this is a true worker (with some practice).
 
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=QKmwckP9q5E​

Creator: Stephen Hobbs
Publisher: Vanishing Inc
MSRP: $ 50
Skill Level: Intermediate / advanced
DVD Run time: 170 videos

Type of effect: Card Trick Library

Manufacturer's Write Up:
 
Beginning in January of 2014, Stephen Hobbs - author of Modus Operandi: The Magic of Jack Carpenter, Gene Maze and the Art of Bottom Dealing, and The Essential Sol Stone- commenced a project that was called both crazy and impossible: an online web 'zine to be released every week for fifty-two weeks devoted to his brand of powerful and practical card magic.

Joshua Jay and Andi Gladwin of Vanishing Inc. were so impressed with the Technical Toolbox that they have arranged to release the material as an elegantly-produced DVD set and booklet-with bonus material-in one package.

Stephen Hobbs' Technical Toolbox collects all fifty-two weeks of the original web site, which included more than 170 videos (6 plus hours of material) describing over 55 routines and 85 sleights and techniques. All of Hobbs' original introductions and meticulous credits are included in the accompanying booklet. In addition, separate manuscripts for certain effects are included as downloadable PDF attachments.

Stephen Hobbs' Technical Toolbox will expand your repertoire of card sleights and routines. You will be inspired to develop your own "toolbox" of card techniques by the impossible ribbon-spread switch-out, the elegant spring simple shift, the super-practical subterranean addition, advanced work on obtaining and maintaining breaks, control grip technique (it will revolutionize your handling small packet counts), a detailed discussion of the Hobzinzer cull (more information than many DVD's devoted to this sleight alone), B.U.R.P. (Basic Universal Reverse Placement), the SHEE control, the interlaced-block transfer technique, Hobbs' playing card mnemonic system, the rotary replacement and change, F.I.A.T. (Flexible Insertion and Addition Technique), the incredible routine "The Odds Against Me", and much, much more.

There is so much material in the Technical Toolbox that it is impossible to describe it all; but if you enjoy card magic, we guarantee you will get your money's worth!

Be advised that Stephen Hobbs' Technical Toolbox was a web blog, not an attempt to make a movie. The videos are all simple close-ups of Hobbs' hands with the primary emphasis on teaching intermediate and advanced card technique.

Every penny of profit that Vanishing Inc. and Stephen Hobbs make from this project will go to support Vanishing Inc.'s young magicians charity, sending kids to magic camp and supporting the development of a close-up theater for young performers in South Africa.

​What's in the box? 7 DVDs and a softbound book
 
How are the production values: it's filmed like a vlog or webzine with one over head steady shot and only the performer's hands in frame.

Is it well taught: this is a master class in original card magic. Stephen Hobbs is incredible and this set is destined to be an instant classic.  Anyone who wants to seriously improve their game should get this set.

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=66BXmvpHVDw

Creator: Chris Ramsay
Publisher: Murphy's Magic
MSRP: $ 20
Skill Level: all
DVD Run time: 1 hour and 30 min

Type of effect: impossible revelation

Manufacturer's Write Up:
 
Everything happens in their hands and in their minds!

Two effects straight from Chris Ramsay's personal working repertoire, this is something he's been using to book himself countless corporate/private events. An interactive routine which guarantees a personal connection with your audience.

RED PILL: (trick #1)

Two decks are presented to two spectators. One open pack of blue cards and one sealed deck of red ones. The sealed deck is placed within one of the spectators hands, the other spectator selects a card from the open pack, moments later the selected card has now vanished from the open pack and impossibly appears inside the cellophane of the sealed deck!

SECRET: (trick #2)

Imagine showing a spectator a sealed deck of cards, placing it between their hands and having them think of a playing card. Now imagine that the card they just thought of is now impossibly trapped and sealed inside the cellophane which has never left their hands! The best part is, everything is fully examinable and they can decide to tear it open to find out how it was done, or keep it sealed as an impossible souvenir!
Full length performances and instruction
Bonus (visual) handling
Gimmick included (some assembly required)
 
How accurate is the ad copy? To be fair, this trick relies on equivocate and not merely a randomly thought of card. Chris does offer an idea or two about "hitting" on the first guess, but those odds are not sure fire.

What's in the box? this trick is available as a download or as a DVD with a single card gimmick that will work for either a blue or red USPCC rider back deck. However, should you opt for the download, this gimmick can be found in several popular gaff decks.

Key points: this is a very creative and highly marketable effect that Chris has expertly streamlined for all ages.
How are the production values: top notch, shot in high def, very well filmed, lots of angles, clean environment and Chris is fun to watch. (I totally want his hat)
 
Is it well made: the gimmick does require some arts and crafts on our part, but it's not hard at all - in fact I have done similar get-readys very easily on other 'sealed deck' tricks. Vey easy to put together. Just know that if you choose to give the gimmick away as part of your closer, you will have to make a new one for every performance. And even though this is the more expensive avenue, it's going to create the strongest performance. The good news is you get to keep your gimmick.

Is it well taught: Even though Chris probably could have explained the effect in about 25 minutes he goes over an hour and a half explaining every nuance.
 
My thoughts (what I personally liked/disliked):
 
Storage? Does it "pack flat?" Nothing larger than a deck of cards is used.
 
Does it "play big?" This trick will get you shouts, screams and phone numbers
 
How practical is this in the real world? (can it really be done?) Absolutely, slap this in your pocket and you are good to go - very little angle issues.

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=sUNd9mpv7a0

If you're still on the fence - here is my review: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8PMaGkSwWz8

.... and cancelled

"This project will cancel funding due to the fact that there is no progression and I have other plans for other projects.

Please understand that I am launching all these projects hoping that 1 will succeed.

Many will say that take 8 to 10 months on one deck. Who has time for that. I put in hours of my time designing these decks of cards with passion.

Thankyou for understanding"

Creator: Peter Eggink
Publisher: Empty Hand Productions
MSRP: $35
Skill Level: all
DVD Run time: 35 minutes

Type of effect: Invisible Trick Realizer

Manufacturer's Write Up:

ALWAYS be ready to Astonish...

"Phantom" is a specially engendered utility gimmick that you'll carry with you everywhere you go. This new secret weapon allows you to perform killer effects such as the "Haunted Deck" and "Rising Card" like NEVER before. Use ANY deck, ANY time at ANY place, WITHOUT gimmicked cards, Sleight of hand, etc. Perform authentic miracles on the spot using BORROWED items! You are going to LOVE this gimmick!

Other effects include: Catch a "Ghost" in a BORROWED bottle and watch the bottle EERILY and MAGICALLY unscrew itself from the cap! Then, Hand the ENTIRE thing out for examination.

The gimmick is invisible to the spectator's eye and is easy & totally FUN to perform!

Key Points:
NO Invisible Thread!
NO Loops!
NO Elastics!
NO Skill!
NO Magnets!
All borrowed items!
Easy to do with ZERO sleight of hand!
ALWAYS ready to go!
Instant reset!
Extremely well made gimmick!

Comes complete with the special "Phantom" gimmick along with an HD streaming instructional video, showcasing different routines, ideas and performance tips
 
How accurate is the ad copy? the add copy can say what it says, because it can't' say what it is - I can't even show you the effect, or hint at what it's "sister utility device" is because THAT would give it away. I just think that if the add copy were more HONEST - then the RIGHT people could purchase this, rather than be vague and have people "guess" as to if they could use this or not.
 
In the video Peter says that these tricks are done "without card gimmicks or invisible thread." I just don't think that's being fair. It's a half truth. Of course there is a gimmick. Of course there is a "hidden element" (but we just can't use the word "invisible" or "thread") Not to mention that all the effects in the video are shot from a tight angle as to exclude the "clearly seen" gimmick in the actual performance. (The Genie in the Bottle performance is shot from underneath!)
 
What's in the box? The gimmick and a link to a streaming VIMEO instruction
 
How are the production values: Top notch, all shot in HD, great angles and
 
Is it well made: Very well made, with care could last you a very long time.

Is it well taught: very meticulous teaching, I think Peter does everything he can to
ensure you learn how to do all of the effects presented in the video. On the video you learn 4 effects, The Rising Card, the Haunted Deck, Genie in a Bottle (unscrewing bottlecap) and a "Phantom Vanish" which is Peter's take on a retention vanish with a coin.
 
Storage? Does it "pack flat?" The utility can be easily carried on your person and will "match" similar objects standard to a magician.
 
Does it "play big?" These "haunted" style effects get very big reactions. This is a very creative utility and I can easily see more of these "spirit move" tricks done with it. As Peter points out in his teaching, the "utility" even though it's visible in all of your performances can go by unseen by the spectator so long as it has a purpose. However, the fact that it IS SEEN - can draw heat to it, especially if you do two consecutive effects with it.
 
How practical is this in the real world? (can it really be done?) I think it can be a very practical idea, I'd be curious how it works in different lighting conditions - that said I think that for specifically rising card and the haunted deck - LOOPS are a more practical and more "invisible" utility. Of the 4 effects - the Genie in a bottle trick is the only effect exclusive to this gimmick.
 
How original is this idea? Both the haunted deck and the rising card can be performed with LOOPS and both can be performed with a borrowed deck with no advanced set up. A retention vanish can be done with only sleight of hand, and no complicated gimmick is needed.

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=pSnRimNtaLM

link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j_aYLRSXTeI

"The Viola Deck is the quintessential royalty deck made for all card collectors."

Royalty has always had a history of donning the color purple and now it's officially in a deck of playing cards. The Viola Playing Cards is coated in beautiful shades of purple. It also displays waves and curves that are similar to the ones in the famous Viola flower.

Printed by USPCC, this deck will truly stand out in your collection.

Buy them here: http://www.penguinmagic.com/p/S20036

Creator: Agus Tjiu
Publisher: Tjiu Magic
MSRP: $ 45
Skill Level: all
DVD Run time: 43 minutes

Type of effect: multiple card prediction utility

Manufacturer's Write Up:

Introducing, the latest in magician gear. A new must-have item for all performing magicians. Great and unlimited effects in a seemingly innocent item. A prop that can be handed out for examination before and after the routine. ESP prediction, Card Prediction, Card transformation, Card transposition Magician's imagination is the limit, Gimmick can be personalized with your own picture and your own name, Easy to modify, Step by step instruction on the DVD

How accurate is the ad copy? "Easy to modify" means "easy" to personalize with your name and photograph. You won't be able to make your own predictions. The add also seems to imply that there are endless and unlimited possibilities with this gimmick - I don't agree. You are "limited" to the predictions that Agus gives you.

What's in the box? DVD, gimmick and lanyard + four Bicycle printed prediction cards:

1. Hand written ESP prediction card (all symbols)
2. Printed ESP prediction card (all symbols)
3. Hand written card predictions 8C, KH, 6D, 3C, 5S
4. Card Face predictions 8C, KH, 10S, 7D, QS, 5H

Key points: The DVD is in Korean with broken English subtitles

How are the production values: Lacking, the flashy wipes and graphics are meant to distract you from the fact that this is just the performer standing against a blank wall with a tripod setup. The DVD has no live performances, or any performances with spectators.

Is it well made: It's incredibly well made and with care could last you forever. You purchase either a red or blue backed gimmick, but for the money it's the difference of 2 cards, it would have been nice to include both red/blue for each performer.

Is it well taught: Again, it's in Korean with English subtitles. There are no other special angles given.

My thoughts (what I personally liked/disliked):

Storage? Does it "pack flat?" It's only the lanyard which hangs around your neck.

Does it "play big?" The idea that it can reveal "any" spectator's selection, even after they change their mind is a great effect.
 
How practical is this in the real world? (can it really be done?) Yes it can be done in the real world with some practice with the gimmick. The gimmick has a technical aspect that will require some familiarity.
 
How original is this idea? This "technology" has been used in a few tricks I've seen on the market lately.

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=d1_mcbswSaw

review link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MXKGEgRlaf8

Prepare to be amazed! It's dark enough outside to set off The Fireworks deck. These beautiful explosions in the sky will leave you in awe. This is the first deck of it's kind and it will bring you back to simpler times. The Fireworks deck is printed by The United States Playing Card company.

The back card sets off the deck with an assortment of colors. The fireworks are the most perfect ones of the bunch.

The face cards are also exploding with color. We kept the traditional court figures but created an eye-catching backdrop in their clothing.

The pips are streaks of light that slowly fade from view. The colors are vivid and are guaranteed to give you a grand finale.

Retailers please visit: http://www.murphysmagic.com/product.aspx?id=556

Creator: Big Blind Media
Publisher: Big Blind Media
MSRP: $ 30
Skill Level: Beginner

Type of effect: Sleightless Card Magic Tricks

Manufacturer's Write Up:

Join your hosts Liam Montier, Cameron Francis, Dave Forrest and Steve Dela and prepare to learn some of the most powerful and useable card tricks EVER INVENTED!

These powerhouse routines have been specifically handpicked because they absolutely slay audiences, yet do not require a single sleight or move. Yep - these are 100% sleight free. You will positively cackle when the innovative and imaginative methods are revealed to you, and you can rest assured that audiences will be floored by each of the eleven routines on offer.

From the ridiculously clean double card location of 'Double Salto' to the totally impromptu memory feats of 'Wayneman' to Dave Forrest's mind exploding ACAAN 'Route 1', this is a collection of material that you WILL USE!

Awesome Self Working Card Tricks - amazing magic without the sleights!

Here is what I thought of each trick on a scale of 1-5

Your Thoughts Are Mine (John Carey) 4/5
Compatibility (Wayne Dobson) 3/5
Wayne Man (Wayne Dobson) 3/5
The Future Deck (Jack Vosburgh) 4/5
Automatic Ace Triumph (Kuniyasu Fujiwara) 5/5
Emotional Reaction (Dai Vernon) 5/5
Power Of Thought (Paul Curry) 5/5
What A Turn Up (Kaymar Magic) 5/5
Route 1 (Dave Forrest) 4/5
Double Salto (William B Gibson) 4/5
Further Than That (Stewart James) 4/5

That center block represents the strongest effects on the DVD, mostly because they are pretty much impromptu and strong magic visually. I will be adding those effects to my every day repertoire!

How accurate is the ad copy? Ha ha, apart from the purely subjective words like "slay" "powerhouse" and "floored" I think you will certainly find a good handful of tricks that you will enjoy performing.

What's in the box? DVD with 10 effects

Key points: Shot on the same location (at the same time) as Cameron Francis "Slightless" DVD using the same beautiful models.

How are the production values: Great studio and performance shots. You can't go wrong with Big Blind Media.

Is it well taught: Absolutely, these guys have stripped these tricks down to the bare essentials and built them back up with very strong convincers.

Storage? Does it "pack flat?" Some packet tricks, but all you need is a deck of cards.
 
Does it "play big?" As the add copy suggests, some of these tricks are "AWESOME"

How practical is this in the real world? (can it really be done?) All of these tricks are practical, some require advanced prep and deck "adjustments."

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=T6URhyQ8wUI

the part where he called the ACE of Spades a "Joker" THAT didn't crack you up?