Stand back, because these GIFs really pop. Using a simple optical illusion, some clever artists have made your everyday GIFs look 3D — except better, because you don't need goofy eyewear to enjoy them.
Here's how it works: By placing vertical white lines on the image, it establishes a marker for the foreground of the image. Basically, you are tricking your brain into thinking that the lines are closer to you than the image itself, so when an object crosses in front of the line your brain perceives it to be coming closer to you.
See also: Batman Art Transforms Caped Crusader Into Villains
Nothing about the image has changed, your brain is just seeing it differently. This effect can be used on any GIF, but the results may vary.
If people can get over a couple vertical white lines on the screen, maybe we can get rid of those pesky glasses in the movie theaters as well.