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Brian Kennedy: Hacked Reviewed

One DVD, one gimmick and $34 bucks. Is it gem or is it rubble? Stay tuned to find out.

Effect

The short version of the effect is that a spectator's signature moves from one card to another. Take a look at the ad trailer for a full routined version of the effect.

Method

Using a very clever gimmick and some basic sleight of hand, just about any level of magician can perform this. You are supplied with the gimmick needed. If you have any level of basic card handling skills you can do this effect. One thing to consider is that in each performance you will lose a face card. Further, you will need a duplicate of the card that you are going to have signed. So each performance requires the following:

• Your Gimmick
• A Duplicate of Your Gimmick
• The Card to be signed (must be a face card)
• A Duplicate of the card to be signed

At the end of the performance, the signed card is no longer useable for a future performance of the same effect. Thus you'll need another face card to be signed and a duplicate of that card. If you've got a deck full of Queens of Spades or something, then you're all set.

Ad Copy Integrity

The ad copy is a little bit off. Not much, but enough to warrant an explanation. Let's clarify a few things. First, the opening line of the written copy says, "Cause a spectator's signature to transfer from one card to another whilst it is held in their own hands!" That's sort of true. The first transfer from one card to another is done with the "receiving" card in your hand, not the spectator's hand. The finale when it goes back to the spectator's original card is done in their hand. You place the (apparently) un-signed card in her hand. Then when she checks it again, it's signed.

The video trailer refers to a "freely" selected card. The card is not freely selected if you know what I mean. The trailer also states that the card can be examined "before and after." Let's be clear about that as well. The originally signed card can be examined before it's signed, after it's signed and after the signature has been (apparently) removed. However, the card that the signature magically appears on is a different story. Early on in the performance before the signature appears, that card can be examined. However, the moment that you are about to cause the signature to appear as well as after the signature appears, the card cannot be examined.

Also, the performance shot left out quite a few details to protect the method. However, during the DVD you get a full uncut performance warts and all. There are a couple of obviously awkward moments that the spectator clearly noticed. This can, luckily, be overcome with proper presentational prowess and practice.

Product Quality

The gimmick is well made and looks good. It can't be used in extremely close up situations. However, the proximity shown in the trailer should be just fine. You're also taught how to make another gimmick if needed. It can be made out of any deck style that you prefer. The teaching segment was fine, though Brian Kennedy was a bit quiet and shy-seeming thus making it hard to hear and follow him sometimes. Also, the lighting wasn't great. However, you will easily learn everything you need to learn to perform this effect with no problem.

Final Thoughts

For the price of $34.50, you get an already made — it was probably hand made — gimmick plus the instructions on how to use it. If you like the effect you saw on the trailer and it fits your style, I'm sure you'll be happy with your purchase.

Final Verdict:
4 Stars with a Stone Status of Gem.