Red and Blue by Jonathan Sadowski

Effect

The trick "Red and Blue" by Jonathan Sadowski presents a visually striking card effect. A deck is split into two halves—one with red backs and the other with blue backs. The spectator freely selects any card from the red portion. After memorizing it, they place their hand over the blue-backed cards. The magician mimics throwing the selected card into the blue stack. When the spectator names their card, a single red-backed card appears among the blue cards—revealing their selection. The blue cards can then be examined, showing no duplicates, while the red cards confirm the disappearance of the chosen card.

Full Details

The trick uses a custom-printed deck with half red-backed and half blue-backed cards. The spectator has a completely free choice from the red cards. The method combines a clever force with another well-known magical principle, making the effect self-working with no sleight of hand required. The blue cards remain untouched by the magician after the initial selection, reinforcing the illusion of fairness. While the red cards cannot be inspected, the blue cards are normal and can be freely examined.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick is ideal for magicians who want a strong, self-working card effect with minimal handling. It suits performers who prefer organic, conversational presentations. Since it requires no advanced sleights, beginners can learn it quickly, while experienced magicians will appreciate its deceptive simplicity. Those who enjoy color-changing or "cards across" plots will find this a fresh take on the classic routine.

Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform

"Red and Blue" is designed to be easy to perform. David from Magic Orthodoxy describes it as "effortless" and notes that it can be performed immediately after learning the method. There are no difficult sleights, and the setup is minimal—just separating the red and blue cards before the trick. Angle sensitivity is low, though performers should be cautious when handling gaffed cards to avoid accidental exposure.

What Magicians Say

David praises the trick, calling it a "winner" and highlighting its deceptive nature. He was initially unsure about the method but found it ingenious upon learning it. He appreciates the combination of familiar techniques into a fresh routine, stating, "He's created the easiest cards across I've ever seen, and it's beautiful." The trick's organic presentation and instant reset make it highly practical for real-world performances.

The only noted limitation is that the red cards cannot be inspected, but David considers this a minor trade-off given the effect's strength. Overall, "Red and Blue" is recommended for its clean, deceptive, and easy-to-perform nature.