Inked is a prediction routine in which the performer predicts where the spectator would get a tattoo and what the tattoo would be. The spectator picks one of five cards. Each card contains a picture of a different part of the body where people typically get tattoos (i.e. face, shoulder, chest, lower back, arm) and also five different pictures of tattoos. None of the tattoos on the five cards are the same. The spectator picks the tattoo that they wish to go on that body part. The performer does not see the pictures on that card at any time. Then, the performer displays a second set of five cards, each containing five pictures of tattoos (no body parts). The pictures on the second set of cards are the same 25 pictures from the first set of cards, but they appear in a random order on the second set of cards. The performer shows the spectator the second set of cards, one at a time, without looking at the photos and asks if the spectator sees their tattoo. Then, the performer divines the body part and the tattoo.
While this trick works, and it is enjoyable for an audience, it is not a killer trick. At some point, the card in the second set needs to be turned over, even just for a second and it is not as astonishing as other mentalism tricks out there. This trick still is satisfying for spectators, but the reactions I received were not over the top.
Inked comes with the 10 above-described cards and a link to a streaming video/download. The video is taught by Peter Nardi, who only performs in studio and not a live performance. He then explains the method, which requires the ability to do first grade math, to an Alakazam worker, who is not a magician. It is not the best explanatory video since Nardi explains the method to a lay person so there is not give-and-take between him and another magician. The ad copy and promotional video are accurate.
The cards are nicely made and will last a very long time. They are made out of durable plastic and are the size of a poker playing card. The backs of the cards contain the name of a tattoo parlor in the USA and a telephone number for the parlor. Oddly, the telephone number has one too many digits. The cards can be inspected, but too close of an inspection will reveal some clues to a spectator. However, most spectators won’t pick up on it, nor will they inspect the cards.
If you like tattoos and can fit a very niche patter into your routine, check this out.