Twisting the Aces by Dai Vernon, Nick Trost, Lloyd Barton, Josep Vidal, Luke Jermay, and Craig Petty

Effect

The Twisting the Aces trick presents a visual and interactive card effect. The magician shows four aces, all face down. With a simple twisting motion of the wrist, the magician causes one ace to visibly turn face up. This is repeated until all four aces have magically flipped over, one by one. The effect is direct and visual, creating a sense of impossible physical manipulation of the cards.

Full details

Twisting the Aces is a classic card plot originally created by Dai Vernon. The routine uses only four aces, though other four-of-a-kind sets can be used. The standard method relies on foundational card sleights and controlled counts to create the illusion that each card is independently turning over. Many modern variations exist, expanding the basic plot. Some versions, like Nick Trost's MAXI TWISTO, incorporate gimmicked cards to transform the four aces into a royal flush at the climax. Other creators, like Lloyd Barton, have redesigned the method using custom gimmicks with elastic thread for a different visual deception. Performances can range from a quick, thirty-second interlude to a feature piece in a longer set, sometimes combined with other effects like a color-changing deck.

Who should consider the trick

This trick is suitable for a wide range of magicians. Beginners can find gimmicked versions, like MAXI TWISTO, which require no difficult sleights and offer an instant reset. Intermediate to advanced card magicians will appreciate the sleight-of-hand versions that use techniques like the Elmsley count, double lifts, and false shuffles. It is ideal for performers who want a strong, visual packet trick for close-up, street magic, or parlor settings. As Phill Smith notes, it is a foundational piece that every card magician should have in their repertoire due to its versatility.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The difficulty varies significantly based on the chosen method. Gimmicked versions are often described as easy to perform and self-working, making them accessible to beginners. As stated in the Murphy's Magic summary, these versions have "no difficult sleights" and an "instant reset." The sleight-of-hand versions require more skill. These versions, like the one taught by BestMagic, rely on techniques such as the Elmsley count and double lifts. Craig Petty notes that the sleight-of-hand version "requires sleight of hand skill, may not suit beginners." Mastery involves practicing the specific twisting motion and maintaining the card order through false counts. Josep Vidal's modern take, ReTwisting the Aces, is described as using "pure sleight of hand" and is built to be robust and "anger-proof."

What magicians say

Reviewers highlight the trick's visual appeal and classic status. Murphy's Magic calls MAXI TWISTO a "modern take" with a "jaw-dropping climax" where aces become a royal flush. Lloyd Barton sought to redesign the classic, finding the original method "visually unappealing and dated" but believing the core concept was "brilliant."

Many emphasize its versatility. Profrt states the trick is "highly versatile, usable as a feature or interlude." Phill Smith chose the Aldo Colombini version as a desert island trick, embodying his philosophy to "master one solid version" rather than endlessly seek new ones.

Performers appreciate its impact. Magic-tv's Craig Petty uses it in set-building, noting its "visual and interactive" nature. Josep Vidal's rendition is praised by Howard Hamburg as "an excellent, well-structured, wonderful rendition and a great tribute to Dai Vernon’s time-honored masterpiece."

The trick is also noted as a valuable learning tool. RealMagicReview advocates revisiting Vernon's original descriptions in books, stating the "Inner Card Trilogy" remains a "goldmine for card magic enthusiasts." Sebastian Toca, reviewing Luke Jermay's lecture notes, says Jermay's additions create "showpieces" with exceptional scripting.