Magic Tricks

I was extremely glad to have found this version of 'Chain through Sword'-which is like a stage illusion in miniature. The other marketed versions use props which are plastic (the plates with holes), have 'cool' designs on them-and there's a kid version with cartoon characters on the plates. Just not the kind of stuff anyone would have in their pockets. I always appreciated the premise and effect-and consider making a version out of wood. More, the other marketed versions cannot be examined-This one can. The m.o. is so cleverly hidden all throughout, and will leave the spectator with props they can examine all day long! What I think truly helps sell this illusion, is when the cards, base, and sword get lifted and suspended by the chain-because all is so light weight. Once seen, it's a simple effect to remake or add window dressing to. Cards can be replaced with others; base can be a half of a cork, a matchbox; the chain can be another style; the toy plastic sword the trick comes with can be replaced with an actual cocktail sword-likewise, a classier metal cocktail sword. The entire effect, now more compact, can be easily carried inside a card box. Not something that other versions allowed. Now, besides the novelty aspect of the trick itself-the puzzle factor-there's an opportunity here to use the effect to tell a story. By using courtcards like a King and Queen, narrative possibilities begin to appear. Romeo and Juliet, a Sword which ends their earthly lives-and a chain, which transcends death and may symbolize the eternal love which is something that cannot be killed. A story, such as this, or any other, can add some depth and interest to a mini illusion that is too good to be passed off as a novel trick/puzzle. In any case, J+L has streamlined the gimmick, and all of the props-so that however presented, it now isn't using stuff that wreaks of 'plastic magic shop prop'. I left off a star because I think the price is a bit high considering how inexpensive the materials used are. The rethinking on props and gaff however, made the purchase worthwhile. Fine little mystery, this!