Gaslight by Seth Race and Chris Hanowell

Created by: Seth Race, Chris Hanowell

Gaslight is a close-up magic app for iPhones that creates a stunning visual illusion where the physical flashlight on the back of the phone appears to come to life, moving and responding under the performer's control. This impromptu trick allows for effects like drawing duplication and light manipulation, making it highly practical for everyday performances. As a phone-based illusion, it can be performed on borrowed devices, adding to its versatility and surprise factor for spectators.

Key features

Uses the iPhone flashlight for a visual, app-based illusion
Impromptu and can be performed on borrowed phones
No physical props needed beyond a smartphone
Suitable for close-up and casual settings
Easy to set up and integrate into routines

Pros

Powerful visual impact with minimal setup
Highly practical for impromptu performances
Fosters community engagement with shared routines
Works on standard iPhones without extra gimmicks

Cons

Relies on having a smartphone available
May not be as effective in brightly lit environments
Limited to users familiar with app-based magic

Effect

Gaslight makes the flashlight on an iPhone appear to move and respond to your commands. The light seems to come alive under your control. You can perform this trick using a borrowed phone. The audience sees a direct and visual manipulation of the phone's light.

Full details

Gaslight is an app created by Seth Race and Chris Hanowell. It works on iPhones. The app allows you to control the physical flashlight on the back of the phone. You can make the light move, change, or respond in ways that seem impossible. The trick uses the phone's built in features in a clever way. It does not require any extra physical props. You can perform it anytime you have a phone.

Who should consider the trick

This trick is for magicians who want a strong visual effect they can carry at all times. It suits close up performers and those who do impromptu magic. If you often use a phone in your routines, Gaslight adds a surprising element. It is also good for mentalists who want to incorporate technology based illusions. Since it works on a borrowed phone, it is ideal for situations where you are not carrying your own props.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

Gaslight is easy to use. The app interface is straightforward. You do not need advanced technical skills. Performance difficulty is low because the app handles the complex parts. You focus on presentation and timing. It can be learned quickly. There are no difficult sleights or moves to practice. This makes it accessible for magicians of all skill levels.

What magicians say

Reviewers praise Gaslight for its impact and practicality. David Penn and Paul Longhurst call it "the ultimate pocket trick." They highlight its impromptu nature and powerful visual effect. Craig and Ryland note that Gaslight is "great for impromptu performances" and call it a "strong app based illusion." Erik Tait includes Gaslight in his top magic tricks of 2024. He says it allows for "clever light manipulation" and appreciates that it can be performed on borrowed phones. The trick is consistently described as practical and high impact.

What people are saying about Gaslight

magic-tv says...

Gaslight is a strong app-based illusion, great for impromptu performances.

penguinmagicshop says...

A phone app that allows for clever light manipulation and drawing duplication, Tait appreciates its organic nature and the fact it can be performed on borrowed phones.

worldmagicshop says...

Gaslight allows you to make the physical flashlight on the back of your iPhone appear to come to life, seemingly under your complete control. They position it as 'the ultimate pocket trick,' highlighting its impromptu nature and powerful visual impact.