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Chromatic Aberration by Brandon Ellis and 3 Monkeys Publishing

Created by: Brandon Ellis, 3 Monkeys Publishing

Chromatic Aberration is a gimmick-free color-changing deck routine that delivers high-impact visual magic using just a standard deck of cards. The trick involves transforming the entire deck from one color to another, except for a spectator's chosen card, creating a visually striking effect. It includes multiple routines, from a basic color change to a Triumph-style effect, all without the need for any gimmicks, magnets, wires, or flaps. The deck remains fully examinable after the transformation, making it a practical and engaging choice for close-up magic performers.

Key features

  • No gimmicks, magnets, wires, or flaps required

  • Deck remains fully examinable after the transformation

  • Includes multiple routines from basic color change to Triumph-style effect

  • Step-by-step instruction for clarity

  • Designed for maximum visual impact while maintaining simplicity

Pros

  • Gimmick-free, making it practical and accessible

  • High-impact visual magic that engages the audience

  • Versatile concept with multiple applications

  • Deck remains examinable, enhancing the illusion of impossibility

  • Suitable for intermediate performers looking to expand their repertoire

Cons

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Effect

Chromatic Aberration is a visual card trick where a deck of cards changes color instantly. The magician shows a red deck, and a spectator picks a card. After the card is returned, the magician dribbles the deck, and all the cards turn blue except the selected one. The effect is clean, surprising, and leaves no room for suspicion since the deck can be examined afterward.

Full details

Chromatic Aberration is a gimmick-free routine that relies on sleight of hand. It uses a standard deck, meaning no magnets, wires, or special setups are needed. The trick includes multiple variations, from a basic color change to a Triumph-style effect where the chosen card remains visually distinct in a shuffled deck. The deck stays examinable at all times, making the illusion more powerful.

Who should consider the trick

This trick is ideal for intermediate magicians comfortable with card sleights. It suits performers who want a visual, examinable effect without relying on gimmicks. If you enjoy clean transformations and Triumph-style routines, Chromatic Aberration offers a fresh take on both.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The trick requires proficiency in card handling, particularly dribbling and controlled shuffles. The sleights are not overly complex, but they must be executed smoothly for the effect to work convincingly. Beginners may find it challenging, but intermediate performers should be able to learn it with practice.

What magicians say

MurphysMagicSupplies describes Chromatic Aberration as "a fresh take on the Triumph plot," highlighting its inclusion in their roundup of new releases. SaturnMagicShop emphasizes its gimmick-free nature, calling it "high-impact visual magic" with a fully examinable deck. Brandon Ellis, the creator, focuses on the Triumph variation, calling it "super crazy" and noting its ability to subvert expectations. The trick is praised for its practicality and strong audience reactions.

What people are saying about Chromatic Aberration

MurphysMagicSupplies says...

Chromatic Aberration by Brandon Ellis – A fresh take on the Triumph plot.

SaturnMagicShop says...

No gimmicks, magnets, wires, or flaps—just a regular deck and sleight-of-hand. [...] The deck remains fully examinable after the transformation.

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