Random I-Tunes Song of The Moment: Shout it Out Loud by Stryper
Review of John Bannon's Twisted Sisters 2.0
Eight Cards, two gimmicks, one PDF, a vinyl wallet and a DVD all for $15 bucks! Is it gem or is it rubble? I think you know the answer to that question, but join me on the journey anyway.
Effect
The effect is a combination of magic and mentalism. A red backed packet of four cards (claimed to be Queens by the magician) are placed in front of a spectator. Another set with blue backs is placed in front of another spectator. They each name any Queen. Then the packets are spread to show that the named Queens are face up, but not only that, the blue backed named Queen is in the red pile, and the red backed Queen is in the blue pile. The named Queens have magically changed packets. But wait . . . there's more. The rest of the cards are turned over and shown to be only Jokers . . . no Queens. The only Queens that exist are the Queens that the spectators decided to freely name.
Method
The method is a beautiful combination of several principles at work. All are employed subtly and simply and invisibly. There's a ton of stuff going on, but it's darn near automatic. The method is drop dead easy, and requires very little skill.
Ad Copy Integrity
The ad copy is dead on. It's simple, diabolical, and sleight free. There is an option to do an Elmsley Count but it's totally not needed. In fact, when I do this effect, I leave it out.
Product Quality
The cards you get are Mandolin back Bicycles and thus excellent quality. The DVD is short, but well produced, and covers everything you need in depth. Plus there are some bonus interview segments with Bannon. The DVD menu is simple and easy to use. Plus, you get a PDF download of the original printed instructions from back in the day when this was first released.
Final Thoughts
Products like this are a pleasure to review. They're easy. The quality is top notch; the creator is a legend; the props are well made; the effect is taught perfectly, and the price is almost too low. If you don't already have this (and you like the effect) this is a must have.
Final Verdict:
5 Stars with a Stone Status of GEM!
13 Comments
Nice review! Thanks Jeff!
@Jose – Thank for reading and commenting.
I totally agree, I have this trick and love it, always gets a great reaction. Sadly $15 doesn’t buy much in magic now days, this is truly a great value. (In 1974 the first real tricks I every bought was Fraidy Cat Rabbit for $10 and What’s Next? for $4. I don’t do either anymore but still have them in my collection)
@Jay – I hear that. I’ve been thinnin’ my collection over the years. I’ve gotten soooooooooooooooooooo many DVDs for reviewing that I’ve had to purge out my bulky stuff. Every few months, I do another purge. 🙂
There’s a way we used to make the cards examinable that wasn’t mentioned in the original instructions. Made it perfect for grabby audiences! Has John included that this time?
He makes no mention of that in the DVD. Was it in the original printed instructions? If so, then you’re covered because they’re included too.
Nope. It was an idea that me & a guy in Florida came up eith because my oldest (thoigh young at the time) grandkids were grabby.
I use this all the time. It is probably the best “bang for your buck” effect out there. The multiple kickers, simple handling and quick reset, make it the perfect worker in my opinion. I never leave for a gig without packing it.
@Dave – agreed. I always have either this or B’Wav in my wallet.
Jeff, in John Bannon’s newest book “High Caliber” there is, early on, a no-gaff version of the effect. Perfect for Chet’s “grabby grandkids.”
Dan – Thanks for the head’s up. Hopefully, I’ll get a review copy. If not, I guess I’ll have to fork over my cash . . . Bannon’s always worth it.
Hi Jeff: Just looking through your past reviews, and this popped out. Per your review, it’s to be my next purchase. Thorough and honest review, sounds like all good! Thanks for the recommendation.
@Daniel – Yep. You can’t go wrong with this one.