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Details

Focal Point

Andrew Mayne

(Based on 1 review)
Mentalism with a visual twist

You introduce several antique photographs collected from around the world. A spectator is invited to freely select one to focus upon. After a moment of concentration you begin to zero in on the spectator's thoughts and reveal the selected photograph. However, in a strange climax, you leave the spectator wondering if they imagined it all when the chosen photograph is turned over to reveal a completely blurred image.
  • Complete with everything needed to perform
  • Spectator has a totally free choice.
  • Resets Instantly
  • Includes alternate routines.
Running Time Approximately 16min

Reviews

Bryce Kuhlman

Official Reviewer

Sep 10, 2009

This is an odd premise. I like odd premises. But they're usually hard to pull off in such a way that makes sense to the audience.

So I decided to try it. I've actually been performing this off-and-on for about six months. It gets mixed reactions. It's not the kind of thing you're going to get a standing ovation for. Most of my responses have been good, but not “excited.” That's OK. It's not an “exciting” trick. It's the kind of trick that makes people ponder. When I'm really “on” with my presentation, I can give people an interesting experience. But that's certainly not every time.

The effect has two climaxes. Basically, an audience member is asked to choose one of several photographs of famous monuments. They then focus on the image and any personal memories it may stir in them. The first climax is that you apparently read their mind and tell them which photo they're imagining.

The next phase is the tricky one. You can explain it many different ways. The physical effect is that the photograph of their choice becomes blurred beyond recognition. What does that mean? Have you stolen the thought from them? Is the memory fading? Maybe there never was anything in the photograph and they simply projected their own memories?

As I said, it's odd. At least it's really easy to do and resets almost automatically. If this type of thing interests you, give it a shot. Then post a review and let us know what you came up with.
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