What are and what types of special effects are there?

Tricking our senses by leading us to believe in the impossible is part of the magic behind the films, television programs, theatre productions, and other audiovisual pieces. Control a series of techniques and tools it is what enables creators to bring to life any idea you can imagine. In this sense, it is very likely that at some point you've heard indistinctly the concepts of ‘special effects’ and ‘visual effects’. It will tell you how to differentiate between them!

The special effects involve the creation of shocking circumstances in real time. To give shape to these 'illusions' it is decisive to have total control of the scene and the necessary security measures, so that the risks are minimized. Meanwhile, the visual effects they represent everything that is generated in post-production. This is achieved through the use of programs and advanced software that allow the generation of scenarios and visual elements in a virtual environment.

The visual effects offer the audiovisual industry the possibility to reflect and give life to projects that may be more limited without them, because the reality no means is limited. In short, they are the tools with which to convert the imagination into a tangible resultto provide the spectators an experience to remember.

In this article we will focus on special effects! As you can see, they are a very important part of the world of cinema, television, theater... They can be grouped into different categories, among which the following stand out, with their own relevance, and impact in audiovisual productions and events:

·Mechanical effects

This is where creating spectacular moments on set through impressive controlled physical experiments comes into play. This may include explosions, use of zip lines, simulated vehicle accidents, collapsing buildings, etc. An example is the movie 'Top Gun: Maverick', with Tom Cruise, with spectacular sequences of aerial acrobatics that involve dangerous plane flights in which he himself intervenes.

·Sound effects

Do you know where sound is worked on to create immersive experiences? Dialogues and ambient sound are recorded on the filming set. Then, all the sound effects, such as the sound of a gunshot or rain, are recorded in a foley studio. The film 'Dune' is a fantastic example of how a well-designed soundtrack can encompass foley (everyday sound effects), silences, music and dialogue, which manages to immerse the viewer in an incredible world of science fiction.

·Lighting effects

In the generation of visual effects and emotions, the lighting is a must. They are the key to set the ideal atmosphere! In ‘The Record Warren: The Spell’ the lighting is used to create a creepy atmosphere and generate fear in the audience. Use the schemes of the light carefully designed causes all kinds of feelings, from joy to the deepest terror.

·Choreographed stunts

This type of special effects involves performing tricks and stunts safely and coordinated. An example is iconic of this are the fight scenes in ‘Kill Bill’. All of the sequences in which there is more of an actor are perfectly designed! The specialists that are running are essential to ensure that the action scenes are shocking and safe at the same time.

·Characterization

The characterization is also a kind of special effect that is focused on transforming the actors into completely different characters. An emblematic example that will endure in the time series, ‘The Walking Dead’, where the makeup artists and special effects created zombies convincing through the use of prosthetics and makeup. The characterization is essential to give life to characters that are completely different to the actors who interpret them, achieving a look believable.

We might also say that the special effects are an art that requires a combination of practice, dedication, and hard work to achieve results that leave you with your mouth open. For that to be possible, there is a team of professionals that makes it all happen safely and compelling. Actors double risk, dubbing, major, minor,... In the cast some may spend more unnoticed than others, but all are needed for the special effects that are inserted manage to impress.

The realization of special effects implies a coordination and planning millimeter. Here, the Audiovisual and Entertainment Production Certificate of Higher Education plays a crucial role. These technical higher are in charge of the preparation of the scene, which involves finding appropriate locations, to ensure the safety of all involved, in addition to taking the necessary measures to close areas in which to pursue the scenes that involve a higher degree of danger, among others. The logistics and protection are fundamental aspects for the special effects are carried out in an effective way. Equally, the students of our Production of Audiovisual and Entertainment Projects Certificate of Higher Educationat the end of its official title, is concerned with the visual aspects and technical, of a scene. Are responsible for ensuring that you capture the special effects the way you want and to achieve consistency in the visual narrative. In both, you will learn about the process of creation of special effects. What are you waiting on UNIVERSAE!