From time to time I try to find out what the real goodies in magic are. And I ask my friends. Here is what John Carey suggested concerning commercial card effects:
1. Chicago opener/Red hot Mama. A beautiful 2 phase routine associated with the bar magicians of Chicago. Actually the invention of Al Leech and was published as the Hot Card Trick.
2. NFW. A beautiful twisting type routine by Gary Freed, put out by Elmwood Magic. The four jokers turn face down one at a time and then change to the aces for the climax. So practical and powerful.
3. Card Warp. The invention of the great Roy Walton, inspired by a Jeff Busby effect called Into the Fourth Dimension. This beautiful topological piece with two cards is a stunning piece of visual card magic.
4. The Koornwinder Car. Dick Koornwinder’s brilliant invention where a little toy card locates a selection. The great Tamariz creates a sensation with this. Such a strong and charming effect.
5. The Homing Card. Originally published in the stars of magic, this repeat card to pocket by Francis Carlysle is a staple in the repertoires of magicians all over the world. A lesson in misdirection.
6. Cards Across. So many methods and handlings in the literature. A real crowd pleaser.
7. The Ambitious card. The bread and butter routine of professionals. Tommy Wonders routine, inspired by Dai Vernon’s handling in the stars of magic is, to me the benchmark.
8. Triumph. A classic! Vernon’s effect in the Stars of Magic has spawned infinite variations. So visual, so strong.
9. The Fingerprint trick. Published in the Vernon Chronicles Volume 1, this gem of Vernon has a strong emotional hook and psychologically is maybe the best use for the double lift.
10. The signed folded card to box. First brought to the attention of magicians by the late great Fred Kaps, this piece, the invention of Bruno Hennig is such a powerful piece and a mainstay in the repertoires of workers around the world.
Thanks, John, for the contribution!
