Visual Effects

From early models and miniatures to the introduction of computer-generated imagery (CGI), visual effects are an increasingly common part of filmmaking.

Introduction

There has always been a certain amount of magic associated with the medium of film (there is an enduring urban myth that an early film of a train entering a station caused a terrified audience to stampede in fear). 

However, in recent decades the ability for film texts to transport us into new and fantastical worlds has increased markedly with the rise of digital visual effects. 

Here, we look at the different types of visual effects available to filmmakers and their intended purposes. 

Understanding Visual Effects

Just as almost any sound effect can be added to a film to better engage the audience, so too can effectively any type of visual image be added to a scene through the use of visual effects.

It is worth, however, taking a moment to clarify the difference between visual effects and special effects. These categories are not firmly established and continue to change over time; however, for now it is enough to use the following definitions. 

While filmmakers have always used a combination of these effect types in their films, as mentioned, the balance is certainly shifting towards the use of visual effects since the rise of digital animation tools. 

Harry Potter

Let's consider an example from the Harry Potter film series to demonstrate how both special and visual effects can be used by filmmakers to achieve a desired effect.

In this image we see some equipment used during the filming of flying broom sequences in the Harry Potter films.

In the foreground we see a mechanical rig powered by hydraulics upon which sits a broom with a harness. Behind this, there is a green screen which will be replaced by an artificial background when the audience watches the film.  

So, which of these props relate to special effects and which to visual effects?

Because the mechanised rig and broom were present during the filming of scenes, they can be considered special effects. However, whatever the viewer sees in the background of the shot (in place of the green screen), can be considered visual effects. This background will almost certainly be created on a computer; however, in the past, other techniques such as matte paintings and miniatures were utilised. 

Analysing Visual Effects 

While there are many different types of special and visual effects that filmmakers can draw upon, their purpose is almost always the same: to create an authentic and aesthetically pleasing impression on the audience. This allows viewers to accept that what they are seeing is—if not real—at least believable.  

When it comes to interpreting the use of visual effects in films, while it is tempting to focus on how these effects are achieved, we are more interested in why filmmakers choose to use visual techniques to enhance a particular scene in a given way. 

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