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Declassified by Chris Rawlins

Created by: Chris Rawlins

Declassified is a mentalism trick by Chris Rawlins that recreates a 1973 CIA experiment involving Uri Geller. The performer presents a declassified document and invites a spectator to randomly select an image or word from it. Without any force or prior knowledge, the magician accurately reveals the spectator's thought-of image or word, creating a striking psychic demonstration. The trick is deeply rooted in real-world history, adding authenticity and intrigue. It’s ideal for stage or parlor performances, though the prop’s size may make it less suitable for close-up gigs. The effect is versatile, allowing performances as a skeptic, believer, or neutral observer.

Where to buy

Declassified by Chris Rawlins from Monster Magic
Monster MagicDeclassified by Chris Rawlins£40.00
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Declassified by Chris Rawlins USA ONLY from Alakazam Magic
Alakazam MagicDeclassified by Chris Rawlins USA ONLY£40.00
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Declassified by Chris Rawlins from Magicbox
MagicboxDeclassified by Chris Rawlins£40.00
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Key features

  • Based on real declassified CIA documents about Uri Geller

  • No memory work or complex sleight of hand required

  • Comes with a high-quality, hand-finished prop that ages well

  • Works in any language or setting

  • Includes two versions: Standard (standalone) and Pro (three-part show)

Pros

  • Compelling real-world backstory enhances credibility

  • Strong audience engagement and storytelling potential

  • Fooling effect with minimal setup

  • Versatile for mentalists, integrating with other tricks like book tests or ESP cards

  • Detailed tutorial with live performance and presentation tips

Cons

  • Bulkier prop may be awkward for close-up performances

  • Tutorial is over an hour long, which some may find excessive

  • Best suited for stage or parlor, not impromptu settings

Effect

"Declassified" is a mentalism effect where the performer recreates a real CIA experiment involving Uri Geller. The magician presents a declassified document detailing Geller’s psychic tests, then invites a spectator to randomly select an image or word from a dictionary-like prop. Without any force or prior knowledge, the performer accurately reveals the spectator’s thought-of image or word, creating the illusion of genuine mind-reading.

Full Details

"Declassified" by Chris Rawlins is based on actual declassified CIA documents from 1973, where Uri Geller was tested for paranormal abilities. The effect uses a high-quality prop—a folder containing replicated CIA documents—to frame the performance as a recreation of these experiments. The spectator freely selects an image or word, and the performer reveals it with no apparent method.

The trick comes in two versions:

  • Standard Version: A standalone effect with a compelling presentation.
  • Pro Version: Expands into a multi-phase routine, incorporating additional mentalism techniques for stage or parlor settings.

The prop is designed to look authentic, with hand-stamped details that enhance realism. Over time, wear and tear on the folder can make it appear even more genuine.

Who Should Consider the Trick

"Declassified" is ideal for:

  • Mentalists who want a strong, historically grounded routine.
  • Stage or Parlor Performers looking for a structured, story-driven effect.
  • Magicians who enjoy psychological presentations rather than traditional "magic trick" framing.

It may not be ideal for close-up walkaround due to the prop’s size, but it works well in sit-down performances or structured shows.

Difficulty

The trick is easy to perform with minimal sleight of hand. The method is self-working, relying on a cleverly designed prop and strong presentation. The Pro Version assumes some mentalism knowledge but remains accessible for intermediate performers.

What Magicians Say

  • Steve Faulkner (RealMagicReview) praised its ease and impact, calling it "super easy but incredibly convincing." He noted that the real CIA backstory adds depth, making it feel "less like a trick and more like an experiment."
  • Peter Nardi (AlakazamMagicUK) highlighted its versatility, stating it can be performed as a skeptic, believer, or neutral observer, making it adaptable to different performing styles.
  • Magic Orthodoxy included it in their top 10 overlooked tricks of 2024, emphasizing its unique historical angle and fooling power.

One reviewer mentioned the tutorial is lengthy (over an hour), but it provides in-depth presentation tips, making it valuable for refining the routine.

Overall, "Declassified" is a well-regarded mentalism piece that combines a compelling premise with a practical, audience-tested method.

What people are saying about Declassified

AlakazamMagicUK says...

Declassified takes an amazing method and places it in the perfect context to create something unlike anything. It works in any language, anywhere in the world.

magicorthodoxy says...

Declassified is an impossible moment that you’re going to recreate, having the spectator flip through the packet and landing on an image. It’s a fantastic multi-prediction mentalism effect.

magic-tv (Matt) says...

I love that it’s an actual document—it’s a real document and you could genuinely go and Google it and find out afterwards. I love the fact that it’s a true story.

RealMagicReview (Steve Faulkner) says...

Declassified is so easy and I was staying in this pub and the guy was lovely and I just thought just going to give it a go with zero kind of practice or rehearsal and it was such a great fun.

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