Grandmaster Easy by Phill Smith
Captivate your audience with a world-class Any-Card-At-Any-Number that’s simpler to execute than the classic 21 card trick.
The Any Card at Any Number effect is a timeless staple in magic and mentalism. Historically, its complex techniques have limited its accessibility to only the most skilled and dedicated performers.
Not anymore.
With Grandmaster Easy, you can now wield one of magic’s most astonishing effects effortlessly.
This classic can be performed with ease, allowing you to witness the genuine reactions from your audience. I’ve restructured this effect with a method so straightforward that it will astonish you.
Let me share the journey of creating Grandmaster Easy.
Trial by Fire
I began by seeking feedback, unsure if the effect was worth pursuing. I presented it to a room filled with around sixty magicians, many of whom were initially indifferent to my usual mentalism routines.
The climax of the effect involves the spectator retrieving a deck of cards from their pocket (where it has remained since the beginning) and counting down to the number they selected during the performance—17, if I recall correctly. When they reached that number, I instructed them to stop and reiterated the conditions:
“There’s no way I could have known which card you’d choose, and you could have picked any card. You also had the freedom to select any number, right? Remember, I handed you that deck before we began, and I haven’t touched anything since. What was the card you picked? The five of clubs?”
As I pointed to the 17th card and locked eyes with them, I realized this effect was worth developing. The look on their face said it all; they were convinced it couldn’t possibly work. When they revealed the card, a few perceptions shifted. This isn’t exaggeration; this is how the effect unfolds every single time.
I asked the audience if they found the effect intriguing and, importantly, if the method was apparent. When I revealed it was self-working, a wave of excitement spread through the room, and Grandmaster Easy entered the development phase. I’m grateful to everyone who encouraged me that day.
A practical, commercial ACAAN that feels like cheating
Since then, I’ve refined the effect. I’ve delved into the methodology behind it and performed it for numerous audiences. I’ve amazed many magicians with it, but this isn’t just another technical ‘magician fooler’. The simplicity of the plot and the impact of the revelation leave lay audiences in awe.
Now, you can add this effect to your repertoire. It’s ready for real-world performances. Honestly, it’s so easy to execute that I find it challenging to discuss without revealing the method. Let’s clear up some essential details:
:: No memorization required
If you prefer, it can be performed with a memorized or stacked deck. Convenient, right?
:: No gaffs or gimmicks
Just two standard decks of cards. That’s it. Any issues?
:: No math needed
Not confident in your mental math under pressure? No problem—Grandmaster Easy requires none of that. You don’t even need to count to perform it (though it might help).
:: No magnets, threads, or electronics
I’m not sure how those would apply here, but I wanted to clarify that they’re not involved.
:: Instant reset
Performers understand the importance of this feature. There’s nothing tricky or complicated about resetting; once you finish, you can immediately perform again.
Look, I don’t want you to purchase this ebook solely to uncover the method. While the method is intriguing, it’s so minimal that it’s almost invisible. There’s a trade-off in the routine; if there weren’t, it wouldn’t be something you could perform tonight.
The effect itself is phenomenal, and that’s what you should focus on. When you’re out performing with Grandmaster Easy, that’s all that matters. It flows seamlessly from start to finish, and when I say it’s self-working, I mean it. You just need to concentrate on delivering a powerful performance, and trust me, it delivers BIG.
What do you get?
The Grandmaster Easy ebook provides a comprehensive guide on executing the effect and maximizing its impact. I’ve included an additional effect that utilizes a concept deck to create a striking moment of symmetry for two spectators, along with a section analyzing the method and how to adapt it for unique, personal performances. For instance, there’s a fantastic stage effect involving DVDs and the entire front row, but I can’t delve into that too much here. I also discuss various presentations and offer the exact scripting I use to ensure a knockout performance.
“The reaction has always been strong to dangerously strong.” Dave Moses
“Phill has applied some very lateral thinking to these often-overlooked effects, creating fine works of art. The ‘Association Force’ chapter towards the end of this ebook was simply fantastic. Highly recommended.” Derek Heron