Discover the Power of the “Phil Trick” in Mentalism

The “Bill trick,” also known as the “Fred trick” or “Phil trick,” crafted by renowned magicians like Paul Marcus, Fred Lowe, Trevor Duffy, and Phil Goldstein, is a captivating and humorous performance that can serve as a powerful closer or a standalone act to leave a lasting impression and secure bookings.

For those unfamiliar with this effect, here’s a brief overview: A deck of cards is placed on the table, and a spectator is invited to think of any card. The performer confidently declares, “The name of your card is Phil!” The deck reveals that each card has a different name printed on its back, and the chosen card astonishingly displays the name Phil!

This ebook doesn’t focus on the original card trick itself, as the methods remain undisclosed. Instead, it presents an innovative alternative performance that introduces a second climax, enhancing the mystery and impact of the effect. This elevated presentation transforms a simple gag into a mental masterpiece, leaving audiences in awe and prompting enthusiastic applause.

To implement two examples from this ebook, a Phil deck is required. However, the core principle can be adapted for various effects, allowing you to force not just a card but other elements as well, with or without a Phil deck. Once you grasp this technique, you’ll be surprised by the heightened reactions it brings to your existing routines. Additionally, a bonus example is included that requires no special deck or cards, demonstrating the versatility of the method.

This effect was previously featured in Mentalism Games, albeit with a different approach for the Phil deck. In this version, a standard blank Phil deck is utilized.

1st edition 2015, 10 pages. Word count: 3142, equivalent to 12 standard pages of text.