Con Cam by R. Paul Wilson

Effect

Con Cam is a three-card Monte variation with a fourth card twist. The magician shows three black eights and a red queen. One eight is set aside as the "sleeve card," and the remaining three cards undergo a chase-the-queen sequence. The queen appears to move unpredictably before vanishing and reappearing under the spectator’s control.

Full details

Con Cam uses one gaffed card and three regular Bicycle cards. The routine follows a structured sequence with a strong kicker finish. The magician must be familiar with sleights like the Elmsley Count, the Glide, and holding two cards as one. The trick is designed for impromptu performances with minimal setup.

Who should consider the trick

Con Cam is best suited for magicians with intermediate sleight-of-hand skills. Those who enjoy gambling-style effects and structured routines will appreciate this trick. Beginners may find it challenging without prior practice of foundational moves.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The trick requires proficiency in the Elmsley Count, the Glide, and other intermediate card techniques. The tutorial does not teach these sleights from scratch, so prior knowledge is necessary. The routine has a fixed choreography, meaning the spectator’s role is observational rather than interactive.

What magicians say

David from Magic Orthodoxy praises Con Cam for its fresh take on Monty routines and strong misdirection. He highlights the elegant structure and powerful final reveal. However, he notes that beginners may need to practice foundational moves before attempting the trick. The routine is practical for impromptu performances and easy to reset.