Graphic (Download) by Matthew Mello $22.95
Running time: 20 minutes
Available at: http://www.thementalplayground.com
In this low budget video, Mr. Mello teaches his version of the ersatz memorized deck. He does an adequate job of teaching the methodology.
The performer gives a small portion of the deck to a participant. He spreads the remainder of the deck face-up on the table and instructs the participant to deal her cards face-up onto the table, as fast as she can. He states that he will attempt to memorize his cards in the time it takes her to deal her cards.
She deals, he memorizes. The performer squares the deck and tables it face-down. He correctly announces the value of each card prior to dealing it face-up onto the table. In the midst of his demonstration, he asks the participant to remember the number 73. After successfully naming the values of all of his cards, the performer adds up the number cards in the participants portion and they total 73.
With the exception of two or three cards, the performer can only identify the values of the cards, not the suits. Still, this feat and the kicker should impress a lay crowd.
Mr. Mello has developed a very clever method for accomplishing this demonstration. His method relies upon the secret use of a common, unprepared object that you already possess.
You must memorize a mnemonic that is based upon the features of the object. Looking at the object cues you to the identity of the cards.
Mr. Mello acknowledges the work of Harry Lorayne, Andrew Gerard, Bob Cassidy and Juan Tameriz [sic]. Considering that he gives a nod to Mnemonica, I found it appallingly ironic that he didnt memorize the correct spelling of Juans surname. Its Tamariz, damn it!
While Im impressed with Mr. Mellos creativity and I like the effect, I dont like his method. By simply using a cyclical stack like Eight Kings, you can correctly name both the value and suit of each card, and you dont need to employ the secret cuing object. Using a memorized deck would reap similar rewards.
This product is vastly overpriced. How do these younguns come up with their ludicrous price points? A spin of the money wheel? A roll of the price dice?
For a mere seven bucks more, a consumer who is willing to actually read, can buy Simon Aronsons Bound to Please. In it, they can learn his wondrous memorized stack and numerous amazing effects. At the very least, they can download his memorized stack from his website for free!
This product is clever, overpriced and simply unnecessary.
Not Recommended.