SleightfulThe Papilio Experiment by Dead Rebel Productions
Created by: Dead Rebel Productions
Key features
No sleight of hand required, making it accessible for beginners.
Comes with high-quality, aged props (cards, case, business card) for immersive storytelling.
Versatile for close-up or parlour settings.
Includes a strong routine with a memorable payoff (butterfly revelation).
Marked ESP cards for easy identification.
Pros
Beautifully designed props enhance the performance.
Engaging narrative adds depth to the trick.
Easy to learn and perform.
Strong audience reaction due to the unexpected butterfly reveal.
Durable and well-crafted materials.
Cons
Markings on ESP cards may be hard to see in dim lighting.
Historical narrative might not appeal to all performers.
Requires some preparation (e.g., setting up the butterfly card).
Effect
The Papilio Experiment is a card trick with a strong storytelling element. The magician tells a story about Dr. Nevin, a psychiatrist who used electroshock therapy to test psychic abilities. The audience sees a deck of cards with various symbols, all mixed and cut freely by a spectator. Despite the randomness, the top card always turns out to be a butterfly—the same symbol that supposedly appeared in the visions of those with psychic abilities. The effect is reinforced by a pre-placed butterfly card in the case, making the reveal feel impossible.
Full Details
The trick includes a specially designed deck with aged-looking cards, enhancing the historical narrative. The routine involves spectator interaction—cutting and reassembling the deck—while the magician maintains control over the outcome. A key feature is the extra butterfly card, which serves as a prediction, adding an extra layer of impossibility. The props (cards, case, and business card) are designed to look authentic, reinforcing the story.
Who Should Consider the Trick
This trick is ideal for magicians who enjoy storytelling and mentalism. It works well for performers who want a strong, self-contained routine with minimal sleight of hand. The historical framing makes it suitable for themed or bizarre magic performances. Beginners will appreciate the ease of execution, while experienced magicians can adapt the presentation for different audiences.
Difficulty
The Papilio Experiment requires no advanced sleight of hand. The method relies on simple principles, making it accessible to beginners. The main challenge is selling the story convincingly. Performers should practice the pacing and delivery to maximize the impact of the reveal.
What Magicians Say
Steve from RealMagicReview praises the trick’s visual appeal and strong routine, calling it "lovely" and "very simple stuff, very strong stuff." He notes that while the method isn’t groundbreaking, the presentation and props elevate it.
KaymarMagic highlights the storytelling aspect, describing how the historical narrative enhances the effect. They mention that the pre-placed butterfly card adds an extra layer of mystery, making the trick feel more than just a standard card effect.
Both reviewers agree that The Papilio Experiment is well-made, easy to perform, and effective for creating a memorable experience.
What people are saying about The Papilio Experiment
kaymarmagic7211 says...
The Papilio Experiment blends storytelling and magic perfectly. The butterfly card appearing as the finale is a stunning moment that feels genuinely psychic.
RealMagicReview says...
The Papilio Experiment is a lovely trick—nothing groundbreaking in the method, but the narrative and aged props create a fantastic atmosphere. The butterfly reveal is simple yet impactful.
Performance videos
The Papilio Experiment - Performance
kaymarmagic7211 mentioned this magic trick in this video.
Review videos
Three Beautiful Releases from Dead Rebel Productions
RealMagicReview mentioned this magic trick in this video.