• 5

Just got this in the mail and it is great. The gimmick is made so perfectly. The best part, you end clen and everything is examinable. I would get this right now if I were you.

• 5

One of my favorite effects.
It's so visual and it gets amazing rections.
You HAVE TO buy this right now!

• 4

Awesome gimmick and still one of the best card tricks in my repertoire.

• 5

Wow! Wayne did and exceptional job on DisTortion. Wayne goes over everything very clearly, the gimmick is awesome, and it is completely practical. Buy this TODAY!

• 4

That looks so great but not sure how well it will look in the bright daylight.

• 5

DistorTion by Wayne Houchin is just so extremely sick!

• 4

The gimmick is awesome, but the light could be a problem in some cases.

• 4

Wow! The reactions I get with Distortion are simply unmatched. Spectators have been inundated with card transpositions for ages, but when they see the card change in front of their eyes, they lose their mind. I subtracted one star because the gimmick (while being very well made) doesn't work as smoothly as I'd like and has worn down over time. The good news is you can order a replacement. All in all, this trick is amazing!

• 5

Immense. Better gimmick than anything I found on the internet and allows you to finish cleaner, however you do need to be wary of lighting conditions.

• 5

Easy to do and very clever gimmick. People's reaction is of the impossible.

• 5

Overall a fantastic effect and ultimately a great trick to perform on the streets. This will get you great reactions!

• 5

Smart gimmick, great move. I like the variations also - easy to perform. I'm taking it on the road while traveling in Mexico this month. Wayne, keep em' coming! Hopefully the gimmick will last for a while.

• 3

I saw this as a spectator and I must say this is a very overrated effect. The change is amazing, but when he puts the 6 behind the Deck, the whole thing lost it's effect because u can only see 2 diamonds, not the ones that moved. Then you can't give out everything for inspection like the ad says, you have to change it, which involves sleight and the trick then becomes something for more advanced users.

I like Wayne. I liked Stigmata, he's a good teacher and this trick is an OK trick, but 4 1/2 stars it's not. A magician with slight of hand and a gaffe deck can do things better in front of people and let them touch the cards. I would not recommend this trick for beginners.

• 5

This is by far the greatest card trick I've ever bought. It has so many possibilities, and I'm already amazing people with this trick. I'd highly recommend it.

• 5

This gimmick is ingenious. You must buy this and Smoke. Best combo ever!

• 5

It is an amazing trick and gimmick.

• 5

This is a GREAT Effect. I do have to disagree with a couple of comments. This is an "anytime" effect, not a closer. If you can't convince your audience everything (yes, everything) you do is a miracle from start to finish then you should leave the business.

Originally this was aired on one of Lance Burton's Specials. When I first saw it I made a make-shift gimmick that was horribly constructed and very obvious (horribly crafted and totally different than this one).

Lighting is always a factor (the same with ITR's, Lev's, and just about all gimmicks of the sort) but experience always dictates how to work in all conditions.

• 5

Distortion is a great addition to any street magician's arsenal. Personally, the effect is perfect. I highly recommend this. It is very simple to do, contains a fairly durable gimmick, and great instruction from Wayne.

If you are shaky on whether to buy it or not - do so. You will not be disappointed!

• 5

This trick is so hard hitting - yet easy to do. Wayne explains every aspect of this trick, so you have it mastered fast. A true reputation maker.

• 4

I got this trick in the mail recently, watched the DVD, and practiced along. It was so simple and so well taught that the next day I was amazing people with ease. It was great.

• 5

I'm in love. This effect is fantastic. It's so visual and the look on peoples' faces when it starts to move down the card blows them away! When I first did the effect I was a little worried about the gimmick - but Wayne is an excellent teacher, so it was simple to work with.

The spectator never knows what hit them. People don't even suspect a gimmick. Buy it today!

• 5

I own every effect on theory11, and Distortion is easily the best in my opinion.

Pros:

1.) Like all DVD's that Wayne teaches, he does a voice-over for the performance reiterating each and every step as he does them.
2.) The gimmick: It is very long lasting if you're gentle with it. Mine has about 500 uses on it so far and literally has no signs of use. I expect to be using the same gimmick for the next year or so.
3.) Teaching: Wayne does a great job teaching the effects on this DVD. If you own any of his other explanations you'll know what I'm talking about. You won't have any questions after you watch the whole thing. You will feel like you're right there with him.
4.) Video Quality: Like all other DVD's on theory11, the quality is surpassed only by 1080p (BluRay).
5.) Performance section: I have a lot of DVD's/downloads that literally show only one live performance, if that, and sometimes the performance is for someone from the studio. With Distortion, you get 4 or 5 quality performances on the street and at a party done for complete strangers.
6.) Visually Yours: Along with Distortion, theory11 decided to throw in an old trick from the 1980's by Micheal Ammar entitled Visually Yours. I didn't even know what I was getting when I ordered this DVD. I like Ammar's trick even better than Distortion. It's much more spontaneous: You have someone pick a card, have them sign the back of it, and attempt to find their card in a shuffled deck. You pull out a different card and say is this your card? The spectators think you've failed. Then, with a delicate shake, the indifferent card changes into their signed selection. Instead of using it with "random" cards that you picked yourself(Distortion), you change a card into a selection. Much more powerful.
7.) Visual Impact: This isn't just some card trick that will blend in with all your other tricks. It's extremely visual and, without trying to sound cliché, it will seal your reputation if you do it correctly.
8.) The price: $25 for possibly the best trick on this site. Can't beat that.

Cons:

1.) Like I said above, this trick is visual, and a little bit unbelievable. If this is used as an opener or even in the middle of a routine, the spectator will suspect that the card is gimmicked. You NEED to convince your audience you can do amazing things before you do this. This is on the con side because it is not addressed in the DVD and I think a lot of people will go out an do this as an opener and appear to be some guy who got a trick deck from a no-name magic shop.
2.) Depending on your lighting, the gimmick might flash a little bit. It's best in a situation where there's not a lot of light, however, if you don't perform this when the sun is literally blazing you should be fine.
3.) Visually Yours: Although this effect is amazing, you will need to get a new 6 of diamonds every time you perform this effect as it is signed. I was unbelievably lucky that one of my forcing decks is a 6 of diamonds, but if you're not lucky like me, perhaps do this without a signature.
4.) So one time, I did this trick (for a friend, thank God) and it was pretty much a dud. The reason was, I took the 4 of diamonds and said "Watch the 4..." and he stared at just the #4 index during the entire transformation that the effect was lost. Depending on your style you're probably going to have to adjust the patter in this. Now I ALWAYS say to watch the diamonds. Sometimes I'll even supposedly make a joke that, What if I could split those 2 diamonds apart to change it into your card. It gets a laugh a lot. However, afterward, it's even more impressive because what seemed like a "joke" at the time came to life, and the spectators are even more surprised.

The pros make up for the cons BY FAR. Overall, I'd rate this a 5/5. Great effect, I perform it every night at the restaurant I work at. If you're debating buying this trick, like someone said on another review, take the risk. Odds are you're going to love this trick.

• 5

One Word: VISUAL

This trick can be devastating if preformed correctly. You don't get much better than one card changing right in front of their very eyes.
The gimmick is awesome and I don't think there would be any problems of it breaking unless you were very rough with it.

The DVD is great quality and Wayne does an excellent job teaching the routine and how to use the gimmick. A lot of people have said the gimmick is very fragile but I disagree. It is handmade, but no way is it fragile. It will last a VERY long time I believe. This trick is not "just another card trick" - this will blow people away.

PROS - Visually stunning and is a great follow up to the two card transposition. Once again, Wayne teaches you everything you need to know and goes over everything. He even examines his own performance which is very good. Also, all of the sleights involved are very simple with no hard moves. Wayne also goes through cleaning up after but it is nothing to worry about because it is almost part of the trick. In other words, you don't have to go out of your way. It is very easy and then everything can be examined.

CONS - Certain conditions could maybe expose the gimmick. The darker the better. But with the correct practice, it could be preformed anywhere in any conditions - Wayne does it the street in the middle of the day with no problems. Other than that, nothing else comes to mind; apart from it will take a little bit of time to be able to operate the gimmick properly, but you should be a pro within an hour or two.

Excellent trick. Thanks to Wayne and theory11! Add to cart.

• 5

Five stars. I must admit that traditionally I have been a stubborn magician. Strictly performing card tricks that involved multiple sleights. While the reactions were good, they were still just "tricks".

Distortion - while being simple to execute - separates a card trick, from magic performed with cards. The teaching is clear cut and covers all angles.

Just like the brakes of your car, the gimmick will wear over time. Do not mistake this for not being high quality. Proper use is key. As long as this is for sale, I plan to get one every 1000 miles.

This is a "must buy" for any magician that performs close up magic.

• 4

It's an AWESOME method and requires almost no setup. The gimmick is quite clever, but covering it can be a little difficult at first. Once you get the moves down, though, it's really simple and gets great reactions. The price is just right. The only thing is that if you don't use the gimmick correctly, it will start to slowly wear out. Wayne does EXCELLENT teaching! He doesn't leave out a single step. The main thing to understand is that this is not a complex Criss Angel illusion, but a pocket-sized miracle that you can carry with you ANYTIME and ANYWHERE! This is an awesome street illusion and letting the spectators EXAMINE both of the cards that were used REALLY blows them away. Thanks to Wayne and theory11 for this great effect. 3 words - ADD - TO- CART-

• 5

This is not my first Theory11 purchase, but it's definitely my favorite. As a proud buyer of EVERYTHING created by Wayne (I got hooked when I first saw Sinful), I already knew that I was in for a visual treat as well as some quality teaching. He explains every little in and out of the illusion, goes into how to extend the life of the gimmick, and features demonstrations of the illusion performed as only Wayne Houchin can perform them. It would be awesome to see gimmicks for the Bicycle Guardians or Centurions.

As far as this package goes, though, it can't be beat. As long as you don't mind being called everything from 'David Blaine' to 'Criss Angel' to 'Satan' (I've been called all of these and more due to this one), this will be one of the best purchases you'll ever make. It will literally SEAL YOUR REPUTATION AS A MAGICIAN (did you hear that? That was the sound of another reputation being sealed). If you DO mind being called these things, however, stop, close this window, and don't look back, because this is not for you.

Wayne, thank you and thank you everyone at theory11 for this truly amazing illusion!

• 5

Holy Shtuff... this was my first of soon to be many purchases from Theory11 and I'm super impressed. First off, Wayne's teaching skills are second to none. He really takes the time to explain ALL of the details, not just the details he wants us to know... but the details we NEED to know.

The DVD quality is fantastic, the effect is amazing; and if you haven't already, get this before Xmas so you can drive your family crazy with it. Thank you Wayne, and thank you Theory11. Great site, great prices, fast shipping!

• 5

WOW! Another knockout from Wayne. If you own any of his other tricks you already know what a great teacher he is. Everything is covered and you probably already know all the moves required to perform this effect. So easy yet so effective. Buy it now!

• 4

This effect will get reactions! I do the regular two card transpo first then perform Distortion-- they will go crazy when they see this effect. Every move is broken down, and they arm you with all the knowledge you need to perform this effect in the real world. 5/5.

• 4

This is my first buy from T11. it is SO awesome. When i first tried it on my brother he literally RAN away. The look on people's faces when they see it is priceless.

An excellent buy from T11 if your thinking of buying it-- you should. Wayne is an excellent teacher; it feels like he is in the room with you. Thank you Wayne and theory11.

• 5

Oh man this was my first buy from T11, and had to be my best. The look on your spectators faces when the pips start to melt across the card is priceless, and when you hand everything out for examination, your reputation has been sealed. The DVD is shot in beautiful HD, and every move, nuance, and subtlety has been covered by Wayne. This has to be one of the best effects out on the market.

Great Job Wayne and T11!

• 5

This trick is my all time favorite card trick. i performed it and I've had people scream. If you enjoy an amazing card trick with a bizarre twist I suggest you get Distortion.

• 4

All I can say is that i love this effect. If you are into card transpo's, this is an effect for you. Michael Ammars "Visually Yours" is another great effect that will leave the spectator dumbfounded.

I just performed this for everyone at the S.Y.M, and everyone was stumped. Afterwards, one of the grown men who has been doing magic for over 20 years came up to me and actually thanked me for making his night worthwhile with that one effect.

Thank you theory11, you have given me hope.

• 5

So, so easy to perform. Wayne teaches the trick very well. This trick alone will seal your reputation.

• 5

The craziest effect I have ever seen. The teaching is great, and the best part is that when you perform this effect, people will scream. I just performed this at school and people said "oh. my. god."

That's when my friend (who also does magic) said "okay, how the heck did you do that?!" Get this DVD!

• 5

This is one of the very few tricks that truly astounded my dad. The DVD is a fantastic production and the gimmick functions pretty well, although its a little awkward to use at first.

I am really glad I purchased this trick and I am sure that I will use it a lot.
One thing that I hope for is the ability to buy gimmicks separately if they wear out. Another thing that would be nice is a DVD (with or without included materials) to make my own.

Thanks for the great trick. I have gotten fantastic reactions out of it already.

• 5

Absolutely incredible. Even that doesn't describe this. Distortion is a wonderful routine.

The gimmick is very well made. You can tell it's handmade, the details are so intricate. It works like a charm, and handling it right will make it last so much longer.

The DVD is spectacular as well. Wayne is a great teacher. He teaches you the routines perfectly, in great detail, as well as proper handling techniques. Also, I agree with Matt, Wayne let's get that video on YouTube. :D

In all, this trick is a 10 out of 10 for me. The presentation, to the teaching, to the gimmick itself truly is a magical miracle.

• 5

All I can say for Distortion is that it has worked wonders for spectators. For the first time in a while, my spectators have literally gasped and screamed uncontrollably to this trick. It's phenomenal.

The gimmick is fairly stable, as in it won't break if treated correctly, but it does look extremely real if being used correctly. With the proper care, it should last a long time.

The DVD is very good for many reasons. First of all, Wayne H is a great teacher and doesn't just "tell" you what to do... he explains and demonstrates what to do many times.

The DVD is very high quality and Wayne's style is very funny; not boring like many other DVD's. The only thing I wished for after viewing the DVD was that there be more material or effects using the gimmick, but that's where individual work kicks in.

My rating for this trick is a solid 10/10 for the reactions it gets, ease of ability (difficulty), and DVD teaching and quality. I can guarantee that this trick will not end up in a drawer in your room somewhere!

• 4

"Distortion - The act of distorting, or twisting out of natural or regular shape; a twisting or writhing motion; as, the distortions of the face or body."

And boy does the name of the trick really explain what happens! Not only is a random card visually transforming, but so are the spectators' faces!

This trick is pure gold. The specially made gimmick is hand made and sure does look like its going to last a last time. The handling is very simple. Even a monkey could do it.

Regardless of what you think, the trick is awesome. Takes the switching of two cards to a whole new level. No funny moves. No sleights. Just real magic!

-AJ

• 5

"Distortion - The act of distorting, or twisting out of natural or regular shape; a twisting or writhing motion; as, the distortions of the face or body."

And boy does the name of the trick really explain what happens. Not only is a random card visually transforming, but so are the spectators' faces!

This trick is pure gold. The specially made gimmick is hand made and sure does look like its going to last a last time. The handling is very simple. Even a monkey could do it.

Regardless of what you think-- the trick is awesome. This takes the switching of two cards to a whole new level. No funny moves. No sleights. Just real magic!

-AJ

• 4

This trick is the best transpo I've ever seen. Extremely visual and also breath-taking. When I performed this trick for the first time, I got goosebumps. It's THAT good.

The Reactions:

If you don't like hearing the words "No Way!" and "WTF!" followed by a "Holy $%1t!", then no, this trick is not for you.

The Gimmick:

The gimmick is easy to control once you find out how to use it, and without a doubt, will be your most prized possession you ever received.

The DVD:

The DVD is high quality and teaches everything you need to know on how to perform this miracle. Wayne goes step by step on how to perform such an ingenious effect. Great job Wayne!

This effect is great because it gives great reactions, it's extremely visual, and you end clean. That's right, both cards are inspected at the end by the spectators. I give this effect 10/10.

-Dan

• 4

This is definitely my most prized trick.

The Gimmick

The gimmick is handmade and fragile-- but that doesn't mean it's low quality. This gimmick does not look like it is going anywhere-- it is top notch and so is the DVD.

The DVD

If Wayne's in it you know its good. His teaching is great and he is very funny-- and Wayne, if you read this, I just want to say I can't find that video on Youtube. The video looks MTV quality, and it is very in-depth about every step of the trick.

Overall

I give this a 11/10 and will definitely be performing this soon. If you are on the edge about getting this, I am pushing you over-- because this trick will never collect dust.