Brainchild by Kyle Purnell

Created by: Kyle Purnell

Brainchild by Kyle Purnell is a highly deceptive and examinable card trick that leaves audiences stunned. A spectator thinks of any card and any number, and through a series of seemingly random choices (like birth month, name letters, and card value), the magician reveals the chosen card—the only one with a red back in the deck. This trick uses strong psychological forces and misdirection, making it a standout in card magic. It’s perfect for close-up or parlour settings and is designed to fool both magicians and laypeople. The custom deck adds to the trick’s strength but may limit versatility for some performers.

Key features

Uses a custom deck for a fooling effect
Everything is examinable, adding to the trick's strength
Relies on strong psychological forces and misdirection
Perfect for close-up or parlour magic
Highly deceptive and leaves audiences stunned

Pros

Clean and examinable method
Strong psychological forces and misdirection
Red card twist adds a layer of impossibility
Highly praised as one of the strongest single card tricks
Fools both magicians and laypeople

Cons

Requires a custom deck, which may limit versatility
Some magicians debate the 'free choice' aspect
Reliance on personal info (like name letters) may feel less 'free choice' to some

Effect

Brainchild by Kyle Purnell is a card trick that leaves audiences stunned. A spectator thinks of any card and a number. The magician then counts to that number in a unique way, revealing the chosen card as the only one with a red back. The deck is examinable, adding to the trick's fairness and impossibility. The red card twist is a standout moment that amplifies the effect.

Full details

Brainchild uses a custom deck to create a highly deceptive and fooling effect. The trick involves a spectator thinking of any card and any number. The magician counts to the chosen number in a unique manner, revealing the spectator's card as the only one with a red back. Everything is examinable, making the trick even more convincing. The method relies on strong misdirection and psychological forces, ensuring the moves remain hidden.

Who should consider the trick

Brainchild is ideal for magicians who want a strong, examinable card trick that works well for both lay audiences and fellow magicians. It’s particularly suited for performers who enjoy routines that involve audience participation and psychological elements. The trick’s clean presentation and examinable nature make it a great choice for close-up or parlor settings.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

Brainchild is moderately difficult to perform. It requires a good understanding of misdirection and pacing to hide the necessary moves. The trick also involves handling a custom deck, which may take some practice to get used to. However, the method is well-designed, and with proper rehearsal, it can be performed smoothly.

What magicians say

Craig Petty describes Brainchild as "the holy grail of card magic," praising its examinable nature and strong effect. He highlights the red card twist as a key moment that adds to the trick’s impossibility. Matt, a non-magician, was stunned by the trick, emphasizing its fairness and strong misdirection. Some magicians debate the 'free choice' aspect, but lay audiences find it more impressive. Overall, Brainchild is highly recommended for its creativity, commercial appeal, and fooling power.

What people are saying about Brainchild

Craig Petty (magic-tv) says...

Brainchild is the 'holy grail' of card magic—highly deceptive, examinable, and leaves audiences stunned. The red card twist adds a layer of impossibility.