Triumph Idea by Brandon Ellis and 3 Monkeys Publishing

Created by: Brandon Ellis, 3 Monkeys Publishing

Chromatic Aberration is a gimmick-free color-changing deck routine that delivers high-impact visual magic using just a standard deck of cards. This close-up magic trick involves transforming the entire deck's color from red to blue, except for a spectator's chosen card, through sleight-of-hand. The deck remains fully examinable after the transformation, enhancing the illusion's impossibility. It includes multiple routines, from a basic color change to a Triumph-style effect, designed for maximum visual impact and audience engagement.

Key features

  • No gimmicks, magnets, wires, or flaps—just a regular deck and sleight-of-hand.

  • The deck remains fully examinable after the transformation.

  • Includes multiple routines, from a basic color change to a Triumph-style effect.

  • Step-by-step instruction for clarity.

  • Designed for maximum visual impact while maintaining simplicity.

Pros

  • Gimmick-free, making it accessible and practical.

  • Deck remains examinable, strengthening the illusion.

  • Multiple routines offer versatility in performance.

  • Step-by-step instructions ensure clarity and ease of learning.

  • High visual impact for audience engagement.

Cons

  • May require intermediate sleight-of-hand skills.

  • Limited to performers comfortable with card magic.

Effect

The Triumph Idea is a gimmick-free card routine that creates a striking visual transformation. A spectator selects a card from a red deck. After the card is returned, the magician dribbles the deck, instantly changing all cards to blue—except the chosen one. The effect combines a color change with a Triumph-style reveal, leaving the audience with a strong visual surprise.

Full Details

The trick uses a standard deck with no gimmicks, magnets, or special setups. The deck remains examinable before and after the transformation. The routine includes multiple variations, from a basic color change to a more complex Triumph-style effect. The core method relies on sleight-of-hand, with the dribble action serving as the key moment of transformation.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick suits intermediate magicians comfortable with card sleights. It works well for performers who want a visual, examinable effect without relying on gimmicks. The multiple routines included make it versatile for different performance settings, from close-up to parlor magic.

Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform

The difficulty level is moderate. The sleights require practice to execute smoothly, but the tutorial provides step-by-step instruction. The dribble-based color change is designed for visual impact while keeping the mechanics manageable. Performers should expect to rehearse the timing and handling before performing live.

What Magicians Say

Brandon Ellis describes the Triumph variation as "super crazy," highlighting its ability to subvert expectations. The effect is praised for its examinable nature, reinforcing the illusion of impossibility. The teaching style is noted for clarity, making the moves accessible to intermediate performers. The routine is recommended for those seeking a fresh, gimmick-free approach to color-changing deck magic.

What people are saying about Triumph Idea

SaturnMagicShop says...

No gimmicks, magnets, wires, or flaps—just a regular deck and sleight-of-hand. The deck remains fully examinable after the transformation. [...] Brandon clearly loves the Triumph routine, suggesting it subverts expectations in a memorable way.

Tutorial videos