Keys of Leslie.

Check this out: http://www.hocus-pocus.com/magicshop/products_detail.cfm?item=5572

The classic 7 keys plot is a great piece of magic, but to make a version that uses something that looks like a giant kids toy and worse still reeks of 'hokey magic prop' is plain ridiculous.

The apparent justification for this chunky piece of garbage is pathetic...

"There is nothing unusual about this lock" says the magician, "We just made it big enough so you could see it in the back."

Oh please.

"The other reason these keys are so large is that it make it impossible to do any sleight of hand with them," says the magician.

The reason the traditional plot works so well, is that when it's usually performed with a real looking lock, the keys can be picked out by spectators and tried and the last key is also picked out and tried by a spectator - eliminating the possibility of 'sleight of hand'. Making the keys big sticks does nothing for the trick other than make it look stupid.

The most amazing thing about this 'Toys R Us' prop is that it costs $750.

So here's your choice. Pick any one of dozens of methods that are in print that use a real looking lock and perform a great classic of magic, or spend $750 on a big wooden lock and a set of jumbo keys and ruin your career.

Well done Hocus Pocus.

MW.