Ok, I'm offering a completely fair and unbiased review. I've purchased this directly from Penguin,
and have had time to play with my gimmicks and perform extensively.
PROS- Sturdy(possibly
too sturdy)- I will address this in Cons. Well crafted in principal. Even if you know the secret
that makes this work (If you've ever owned a multiple out effect using an envelope, you will be
familiar with the mechanics) you will NOT be able to make this one work without knowing and
practicing the handling/method. Even if your layman spec has a vague idea of what just happened,
they will NOT be able to work this envelope. Extremely easy to learn/perform.
Cons- Price
first and foremost- for what you get, let's face it- It's very expensive. It would have been nice to
receive an extra envelope to insert our gimmick into once the paper becomes frail or starts
deteriorating. Sturdiness- This thing is HEAVY, even without a load- let alone two loads if you're
using this as a switch device! In the hands of 4 out of 5 specs, the first comment is regarding it's
unusual weight. It brings heat, but crowd control is our job. Anything larger than a double folded
bill or piece of paper loaded, and the area may not seal as displayed in demo without the occasional
mishap. Performing out of a shadow in daylight, or in a well lit area may expose your gimmick; dont
throw caution to the wind if you plan to perform for laymen who aren't obedient sheep.
Method/gimmick can be easily exposed at right angle if given enough handling time.
Demo-
Great teachings by Ricardo; comical approach, handlings and applications are very thorough. However,
50/50 principal and basic switch are the only things covered in detail without having to either own
or purchase one of many other effects referenced. Starts to feel like an ad or promo for other
effects to use in correlation with Black Door.
Overall 4 out of 5 stars because of price.
As critical as I'm being- I've yearned for the perfect switch envelope for many years and this comes
as close to ideal compared to anything else currently on the market without having to construct your
gimmicks yourself.
46 of 49 magicians found this helpful.
Four stars because this does what it's supposed to do: it switches bills, cards, etc. and it does it
well and it does it while the spectator is holding the envelope. So why not five stars? Well,
because the gimmick is easily exposed if the lighting is bright. And, as others have noted, for the
price they could have provided more than two envelopes. They're paper, after all, and durability is
a question mark. The instructions are good, and this is definitely something that can be a stunner
with the right effect.
25 of 28 magicians found this helpful.
Just received mine and they are everything promised in the sales video. Easy to use and foolproof.
Lots of potential effects possible. And they are quite sturdy and should last for dozens and dozens
of presentations.
11 of 11 magicians found this helpful.
is a utility, not a trick. I have made over 200 purchases from Penquin and this rates in the top 5.
I would have given it 10 stars if they would only provide refills!
9 of 10 magicians found this helpful.
As a part time performing magician I have been able to think of an unreal way to perform this
effect. As a School Social Worker and Therapist I would have students and clients identify and
write their negative feelings or thoughts on a piece of paper. The power of the individual to make
that feeling disappear and replaced by a more positive energy and thought is powerful. This is made
easy with Black Door.
Thank you Riccardo
BTW. Great effect with endless
possibilities.
8 of 8 magicians found this helpful.
Hi Just want to say that Excellent IDEA , I already started to use the trick . I have same Idea in a
small wooden box which I purchased in INDIA , but in an envelope no one even think about it . About
the Instructional Video , Amazing Teaching , Little Italian Accent , but detailed instructions .
Talking too much unnecessary things ... But Over all , Highly recommended ... And you can carry it
anywhere in your pocket .. Quality wise ... Ok ... Excellent Trick .
7 of 7 magicians found this helpful.
I bought this prop for a rainy day. I have no immediate need to use it. It is therefore a solution
looking for a problem right now. That said, I'm so glad I made this purchase of a very elegant and
versatile prop which does exactly what is featured in the promotion.
The prop is beautifully
crafted. The presentation and packaging are most professional and the explanation is excellent. I'm
so glad to have this prop in my armamentarium.
6 of 6 magicians found this helpful.
Love the device. Love the potential with it. The explanation was fun and very thorough. My mind
is rracing with potential uses for this device. Nicely done.
6 of 6 magicians found this helpful.
Unbelievable device to switch bills, cards and paper !!! It's on of my best purchase this year... I
use it with Diamonds are Forever from Rick Lack. Black Door is like Quiver, a must buy for every
magician ! 5 Stars, no doubt ! ;)
5 of 5 magicians found this helpful.
One of the best switching devices you could own. Handle with care and it will last!
4 of 4 magicians found this helpful.