The Olram File by Ed Marlo, Steve Reynolds, and Jon Racherbaumer
Created by: Ed Marlo, Steve Reynolds, Jon Racherbaumer
Key features
Expanded edition with 129 tricks and 20 essays
New photographs and editing for improved accessibility
Focus on unpublished Ed Marlo material preserved from historical sources
Ideal for serious students of card magic seeking foundational knowledge
Emphasizes a methodical, studious approach to learning complex routines
Pros
Preserves and publishes hidden gems in magical literature
Provides historical context on 20th-century card magic development
Offers a vast collection of routines for diverse skill levels
Cons
Material may be complex for beginners
Requires dedicated study time to fully appreciate
Effect
The Olram File presents a collection of card magic effects. A magician performs various routines with a standard deck of cards. The effects include card discoveries, controls, and transformations. The audience sees impossible outcomes with ordinary playing cards.
Full details
The Olram File is an expanded edition of Ed Marlo's work. It contains 129 tricks and 20 essays. The material was previously unpublished. Steve Reynolds acquired this material through his relationship with Jon Racherbaumer. The new edition features updated photographs and editing. The goal is to make Marlo's complex card magic more accessible for modern magicians. This release preserves a significant part of 20th century magical literature.
Who should consider the trick
This product is for magicians who study card magic history. It is ideal for those who appreciate foundational figures in magic. Performers looking to expand their knowledge of classic card techniques will find it valuable. It is best for magicians who enjoy reading and practicing from books. Steve Reynolds states it is for serious students of card magic.
Information on how difficult it is to perform
The material in The Olram File ranges in difficulty. Ed Marlo's work is known for its complexity. The book requires a methodical and studious approach. Steve Reynolds advises against trying to learn everything at once. Magicians should have a solid foundation in basic card handling before studying this work. The updated editing aims to make the advanced concepts easier to understand.
What magicians say
Steve Reynolds discusses the importance of preserving magical literature. He says, "This relationship was key to preserving and eventually publishing these hidden gems." He emphasizes a studious approach to learning Marlo's extensive work.
Nick Locapo from Penguin Magic describes the release as a new presentation of legendary work. He notes the book makes "Marlo's complex genius more accessible to a modern audience." The release is highlighted as a significant restock of important magical literature.
What people are saying about The Olram File
Nick Locapo says...
The Olram File by Ed Marlo is highlighted as a significant book release, showcasing a strong trend towards the re-release of historically significant material from masters.
penguinmagicshop says...
This is a new presentation of the legendary work of Ed Marlo, containing 129 tricks and 20 essays, featuring new photographs and editing that aims to make Marlo's complex genius more accessible to a modern audience.
Promotional videos
10 BEST Magic Tricks at Penguin Magic in October 2025
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Other videos
Steve Reynolds, The Olram File, & How To Study Marlo - Penguin Magic Podcast
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