Welcome to the world of Hollywood, where magic is created with the flick of a wand, or rather, the click of a camera. Have you ever wondered how your favorite blockbuster movie scenes were brought to life? Well, it’s time to take a peek behind the curtain and see the true heroes of the movie industry at work: the special effects wizards.
Today, we decided to take a look at 16 side-by-side pictures that highlight just how crucial special effects are in creating some of the most iconic moments in film history. From a fake city that makes us feel the real heat from the crowd, to creatures that give nightmares to even the bravest of souls, these pictures will take you on a journey through the magical world of cinema.
So sit back, grab some popcorn, and prepare to have your mind blown as we reveal the secrets behind some of the greatest movie moments of all time. And who knows, maybe after reading this article, you’ll be inspired to become the next Spielberg…or at least a really good cosplay wizard!
#1. Ender’s Game.
In 2013, a film adaptation of “Ender’s Game” was released, directed by Gavin Hood and starring Asa Butterfield as Ender. The movie made use of CGI (computer-generated imagery) extensively, particularly for the depiction of the Formic aliens and their technology.
#2. Here’s another amazing scene from Ender’s Game
While the use of CGI can sometimes be criticized for looking artificial or fake, in the case of “Ender’s Game,” the result was generally well-received by audiences. Many praised the film’s visual effects and the way they helped to bring the world of the story to life on screen.
#3. 300 — Rise of an Empire
“300: Rise of an Empire” is a 2014 American epic historical fantasy war film directed by Noam Murro. The film is a sequel to the 2006 film “300,” and it takes place before, during, and after the events of the first film.
To create that epic battle scenes, including the naval battle between the Greeks and Persians, the filmmakers used motion capture technology to capture the actors’ performances, which were then translated into computer-generated characters and environments.
#4. The Wolverine
“The Wolverine” is a 2013 superhero film based on the Marvel Comics character Wolverine. Directed by James Mangold, the film features extensive use of CGI to bring the action sequences and mutant powers to life. Filmmakers used motion capture technology to create the character’s movements, as well as the explosions like this.
#5. Godzilla
Godzilla, the iconic movie monster, has been brought to life through various forms of special effects over the years. CGI has played a prominent role in bringing the giant creature to the big screen.
#6. The Great Gatsby
“The Great Gatsby” is a 2013 romantic drama film based on the classic novel by F. Scott Fitzgerald. Directed by Baz Luhrmann, the film features extensive use of CGI to create a lavish and stylized depiction of the roaring 1920s.
#7. Here comes another scene from The Great Gatsby
One of the most notable uses of CGI in the movie was in creating the digital landscapes of New York City and Long Island. The filmmakers used various CGI techniques to enhance the film’s visual effects, such as adding detail to buildings, cars, and other elements of the urban and suburban environments.
#8. Boardwalk Empire
“Boardwalk Empire” is a critically acclaimed period drama television series that aired from 2010 to 2014. Being set during the Prohibition era in Atlantic City, New Jersey, the show featured extensive use of CGI to recreate the look and feel of the early 20th century.
#9. The Hobbit
“The Hobbit” is a trilogy of films directed by Peter Jackson, based on the novel “The Hobbit” by J.R.R. Tolkien. The use of CGI also allowed for the creation of vast landscapes and epic battle scenes. And this scene is a good example. The filmmakers used digital matte paintings and other techniques to create detailed environments.
#10. Man of Steel
“Man of Steel” is a 2013 superhero film directed by Zack Snyder, based on the DC Comics character Superman. The film heavily utilized CGI to create a visually stunning depiction of the iconic hero and his powers.
#11. Another typical ‘300: Rise of an Empire’ scene
The CGI in “300: Rise of an Empire” was truly well-executed and helped to create a visually stunning and immersive world for viewers.
#12. Game Of Thrones
The series’ production company, HBO, invested heavily in creating a realistic and immersive world for the show’s characters to inhabit. This involved using advanced technology to bring to life the many fantastic elements of the Game of Thrones universe, such as dragons, dire wolves, and ice landscape.
#13. The Walking Dead
“The Walking Dead” is a popular television series that premiered in 2010 and is based on the comic book series of the same name. While the show is primarily known for its makeup effects to create the zombie walkers, it also features some use of CGI to enhance the visual effects.
#14. Iron Man
Many of the characters in The Avengers, such as Iron Man, were created using CGI. This allowed for greater control over their movements and actions, as well as more seamless integration with live-action footage.
#15. The Dark Knight Rises
“The Dark Knight Rises” is a 2012 superhero film directed by Christopher Nolan, based on the DC Comics character Batman. The extensive use of CGI to create explosions, fire, and destruction, which are more spectacular and larger-than-life visuals than would have been possible with only practical effects.
#16. Timmy Failure: Mistakes Were Made
“Timmy Failure: Mistakes Were Made” is a 2020 comedy-drama film directed by Tom McCarthy, based on the book series of the same name by Stephan Pastis. One of the most significant uses of CGI in “Timmy Failure: Mistakes Were Made” was in creating the polar bear sidekick character, total.
Which movie scene is your favorite? Tell us in the comment section now!