by Demitri » Nov 30th, '06, 09:54
Fantastic job! Some really strong material on here.
Elias Shift - Performed nicely. No comments on this one.
Ace Appears - The only problem I have with this has NOTHING to do with your handling. The Tally-Ho Ace of Spades actually detracts from the effect (which is odd, considering how cool looking the card is). This is more due to lighting than anything - but the detail of the ace actually made it so the effect didn't immediately register with me. That might sound silly (or maybe it's just late and my eyes are tired), but it took a moment for me to catch up. Handling wise - excellent work.
Elevator - I don't really like this effect for personal reasons - but your handling of it was done very well. Perhaps make sure the cards under the ace are squared more before you turn the deck over to show the card has risen? Might just be me, but this seems like a bit of a giveaway.
Four Ace Trick - Your handling was fine - and from a technical standpoint it works very well. This is a personal preference, but perhaps something to think about.
As far as presentation goes - I feel this loses a bit when you don't show the cards before going into the effect. Without showing them to actually BE random cards - spectators will conclude that they're not random at all. So, first and foremost, I think you should show the faces of all of the cards before going into the effect.
Secondly - look into variations and handlings of this effect. This routine already has built-in repetition (the aces vanish one by one) so you need to add variation to it with your handling. All of your vanishes are exactly the same. While it in no way tips the method, it can tend to get a little boring for some spectators. Varying the way in which each ace vanishes adds to the impossibility of the effect, as well as creates drama and interest for the spectators.
Check out some resources on this effect (there are tons of them). For a wonderful dose of inspiration look no further than TM's own rcarlsen. Look him up and check out his website, he has this routine in his video section and I defy you NOT to enjoy every second of it.
Hot Shot Cut - I wish I could do this. Alas, it appears I am not meant for flourishy and cool card moves like this. Good work - I'll just say I'm jealous, I hate you, and move on. =)
Vanishing Card - Your technique is nearly flawless (are you SURE you've only been doing card magic for 9 months??). Personally, I like to see more of a "tossing" motion in this kind of effect, rather than the "pump, pump, vanish" approach - but your way works for you so don't change a thing.
Snap Change - Of all of the effects you've shown, this is the weakest. You're almost there - you just need to work on the speed and fluidity of the change, as well as keeping control of both movement and finger positioning. There is a noticeable change in how your hand is positioned which gives some of the magic away. You're well on your way with it, so keep working at it and you'll have this down cold, just like the rest of your material.
Again - if you're not lying about your length of practice time (I don't think you are, it's just that darned green monster is creeping up on me, again) then you are well ahead of the game. Keep up the great work!
seems like a friendly place.. just thought i would post some tricks on here.. plz tell me your views.. and improvments i can make.. ive been practicing card magic now for about nearly 9 months so im kinda new but have learnt many effects from dvds and friends 
