What are Special Physical Effects?
Special Effects, though one of the smallest occupational groups within the industry, is one of the most prestigious. British Special Effects technicians are often said to be unrivalled, with increasing numbers of US films being made in the UK as a result.
Special Effects is both a small and specialist area, and entry is difficult, despite the increasing number of Special Effects being used in films and television programmes. Media and graphics courses are available, but new entrants will still have to shadow those working above them for some time before they have the experience to progress.
Special Effects personnel design, make and operate the Special Effects equipment and devices required for a production. Many of the people working in Special Effects are expert in specialised areas:
- electronics;
- construction;
- mechanical;
- carpentry;
- robotics; and
- explosives;
All Special Effects occupations require the following knowledge and skills:
- Basic computer literacy;
- Health and Safety knowledge and awareness;
- Creativity and imagination;
- Good communication and presentation skills; and
- Ability to visualise how things will appear ‘on screen’.
Special Effects within the Film & Television industry are split into three distinct areas:
1. Physical Special Effects
2. Pyrotechnic Special Effects
3. Visual Special Effects
The above terms are occasionally misused (‘visual effects’ is sometimes used to describe all Special Effects), however these three distinct designations are becoming more widespread throughout the media industries.