It’s dark, it’s cold, it’s Saturday at 9:00 — time for another Monster Magic show. Grab a tea and some toast and let’s dive in.
Mag Reel by Xiao Miranda, with routines from Tom Wright (£214.99)
This is a twin-motor, app-controlled invisible thread device disguised as a MagSafe phone wallet. It works with iPhone or any phone (adapter included) and is designed as an everyday carry.
You can float bills, perform a haunted bill, make a card shoot from the deck, spin a can, animate a note in a glass, and more. The thread is strong and highly invisible (as always, check lighting). The two motors run independently and can store up to 50 programmable routines, assignable to three quick-access settings.
Programming is simple: perform the action once, the device records it, and you can fine-tune timing and strength in the app. You can even share routines. Reset is usually instant.
Tom teaches multiple routines clearly and practically, including floating bill, haunted bill, card catcher, spinning can, dancing bill in glass, bottle cap effect, needle penetration, and haunted bolt. The app is excellent, the teaching is strong, and the unit is self-contained — but it isn’t cheap.
https://monstermagic.co.uk/products/magreel-by-joao-miranda
Spirit Coffin by Nathan Cranzo (£44.99)
A small coffin houses a modern spirit-slate effect. Place chalk inside, close it, and a name or card appears written on the lid when reopened. It can also function as a switching or appearing card box.
The 30-minute tutorial covers several routines, including name reveals and card effects. However, presentation is key — the coffin concept really needs a strong backstory to justify the “spirit within.” Without that, it risks feeling like a prop without purpose. Versatile, but best suited to performers who’ll build a compelling narrative around it.
https://monstermagic.co.uk/products/spirit-coffin-by-nathan-kranzo
What Do I Know? – Presenting Mentalism
Mentalism is about connection, not just revelation. If someone simply thinks of “green” and you name it, that’s amazing — but not entertaining.
Encourage personal, emotional choices (memories, meaningful objects, feelings). Build a journey as you reveal information gradually, like uncovering treasure step by step. Create time and procedural distance between method and reveal. Remove props early. Make the participant feel special from the start.
Most importantly: focus on connection and storytelling. That’s what makes it powerful.
Impostor by John Morton (£64.50–£76.50)
Five participants each draw a stick (or Sharpie). One has a red tip — the “murderer.” You identify them after hearing everyone plead their case.
No electronics, virtually self-working, and highly entertaining. The props (now upgraded) double as the carrying case. Includes Sharpie and close-up options. Simple method, big stage impact, and plenty of room for personality. A strong, commercial routine.
https://monstermagic.co.uk/products/stick-imposter-by-john-morton
https://monstermagic.co.uk/products/sharpie-imposter-by-john-morton-copy
Weights Game by TCC (£89.99)
A matrix routine using solid brass or stainless steel weights. Under two cards, the weights visually gather one by one into a single pile. It also includes a hopping-style routine.
The props are beautifully engineered and genuinely heavy, which adds realism. Handling is straightforward, with only a couple of simple moves. Best performed on a mat due to sound. Visual, classy, and easy to perform.
https://monstermagic.co.uk/products/weights-game-by-tcc-magic
That’s it for this week. Please subscribe, leave a comment, and send in questions for “What Do I Know?”
Until next time — grab some magic and have fun.