by Demitri » Nov 1st, '05, 16:50
Nice work, Kati.
Revolver:
Personally, I would refrain from using extra cards for the convincer - this way spectators can (and usually will) go through the deck themselves. You also WANT them to do so, since it gives you plenty of time to clean yourself up.
Bear in mind - the effect itself works as the convincer. Four cards are used - all turning over one-by-one, showing a blue back. The effect itself sets the spectators up for the climax.
Aside from the flashes, the effect was done well. A bit slow, but still good enough to hold the attention of your audience and keep them entertained.
The second routine, however, still needs work.
Your first change was handled beautifully, I must say. Excellent work here. The move, the misdirection, it was all perfect.
The second replacement, if I'm on the right track here - was also done very well. Your handling of the d was very smooth and convincing.
The third card had a little hiccup, taking way too long to turn over and table it. I like that you tried to make it seem more convincing, but in this spot, I don't see why you can't just do a normal turnover and table the top card. That kind of thing wouldn't seem unusual to a spectator.
The fourth card is where you had the most trouble - but the concept is incredibly creative. First and foremost, you can see the card - so you need to work on your angles for the palm. The ditch was very obvious as well. If you're going to use this kind of move, you can't let your hand drop below the table - it's a dead giveaway.
One thing to work on, is your get ready. This was a HUGE obstacle for me, being able to do one thing while preparing for another, and thus, I would hold off on the get ready until I was done with the prior display, and would then, quite visibly, flash what I was doing.
Basically, try thinking about your off-beats. While you're showing that 5 of diamonds, you should be getting ready. When you're tabling one card, just turn your other wrist a bit and you'll catch your break. If you keep the focus elsewhere, no one will ever pick up on what you're doing.
I think my biggest problem with the effect, was the dribbling. It doesn't make sense that you're dribbling the cards over and over (at least to me). Also, the effect is dampened by the fact that you are taking from the top of the deck. Perhaps work in some false cuts, so it looks like you're pulling the cards from completely random spots?
Wow - this is going on forever. Sorry for bloviating! The Revolver is strong, and your four ace concept has a great foundation. Great job, as always!