Abstract: The present invention is for an automatically actuated hidden compartment apparatus and method for creating the illusion that an object placed inside a chamber has disappeared. An automatically actuated hidden compartment apparatus comprises a housing, an outer compartment slidably coupled to the housing, an inner chamber slidably coupled to the inside of the outer compartment, and actuating means within the housing. When the inner chamber and outer compartment are slidably opened, an object is placed in the inner chamber. When the inner chamber and the outer compartment is closed, the actuating means is triggered, thereby preventing the inner chamber from sliding out of the housing. Then, when the outer compartment is opened an illusion is created that the object has disappeared. When the outer compartment is closed, the actuating means is triggered, thereby allowing the inner chamber to slide open. Then when the inner chamber and outer compartment is opened, the object reappears completing the illusion.

Abstract: A novelty drinking straw including an elongated straw portion extending into a molded structure for passing liquid through the molded structure. A short straw portion is also attached to the molded structure and is aligned with the elongated straw portion to generate an illusion that the short straw portion and the elongated straw portion form a continuous liquid passage. The molded structure is in the form of an action figure or other character. The elongated straw portion and the short straw portion extend from opposing sides of a first hand of the action figure, thereby generating an illusion that the first hand is holding a single continuous straw. The elongated straw portion extends through a body of the action figure to a second elongated straw portion extending from a second hand. A second short straw portion is also attached to the second hand such that another illusion is generated that the second hand is holding a second continuous straw.