Practical Movie Effects: When Real Beats CGI!

Practical Movie Effects: When Real Wins Out!

With advancements in visual effects, you may think it's a rare occasion to see a practical effect. Here are some amazing scenes that make us question what's real and what's a result of a computer!

What Are Practical Effects In Film?

These are all done the "old fashioned" way, with real actors, costumes, props, and even real locations and massive sets. The effect is often designed in a studio with a lot of talented hands! Think of all the amazing techniques in Star Wars. Even movie special effects were very prominent before CGI movie effects!

Why Are Practical Effects Still Used Today?

Many times, a practical effect looks better because the result is far more realistic. Sometimes practical effects allow those making the movie to get amazing reactions out of actors because it feels more real for those who are filming! Even those in front of the screen often report being far more impressed.

How Can I Learn More About Practical Movie Effects?

There is a rich history for those interested in the movie effects techniques. There is a lot of fantastic information online. This will include movie scenes with practical effects, how to create them (using tutorials, resources), and even examples of practical effects in movies!

Are There Any Good Examples of Movies With Great Practical Effects?

Check out these movies! Here are some examples from movies using these stunning practical effects!

Jurassic Park, especially the Jurassic Park dinosaur effects, a combination of real props, costumes, and CGI.
Star Wars: Take a look at the famous trench run practical effects of the X-Wing, and scenes that used amazing practical effects that could pass as CGI today.
2001 Space Odyssey (famous for using the technology of its day) for scenes showing spaceships, as well as the "floating pen" in 2001 Space Odyssey practical effects,
Mad Max Fury Road. Think about Mad Max Fury Road practical effects such as the famous flame-throwing guitar!

Are There Modern Examples Of Practical Effects In Film?

While the most recent films might feature a lot of CGI, here are a few examples that are likely to make those who appreciate visual effects happy!

Mary Poppins Returns - Remember that amazing bath scene? Mary Poppins Returns practical effects used bubbles and an amazing prop that made this scene a delight.
Inception - Did you know some of the most famous rotating scenes for the movie were done with an incredible rotating set? Check out behind-the-scenes information on Inception practical effects!
IT - Did you know the Pennywise's "lazy eye" is done by actor Bill Skarsgård? It is a great example of how to deliver chilling practical effects for the horror movie!

What are Practical Effects: An In-Depth Look

A lot of different techniques have gone into practical movie effects, from physical models, props, sets, and actors wearing amazing costumes and make-up! There are so many innovative designs that have revolutionized movie special effects, from "tesseract practical effects" to the destruction of iconic buildings. Some might even say it's some of the "best movie effects"!