During the production of a film or television series, a special effects supervisor is in charge of all special effects. This person is in charge of the special effects created by special effects technicians, each of whom may specialize in something different. Visual effects are created during the post-production, or post-filming, process, whereas special effects are created during the post-production, or post-filming, process. CGI stands for computer-generated imagery and is a type of visual effect. Special effects, on the other hand, are created on set while the cameras are rolling, necessitating extensive, meticulous, and often costly preparation beforehand.
Any technique used to create an illusion in a motion picture, video production, or even a still photograph is referred to as “special effects.” Most people associate the phrase with the big-budget science fiction and fantasy films’ flashy, spectacular effects. However, many other films and TV shows, including mainstream dramas, low-budget independent films, and even nature documentaries, use special effects. Water jets can be used to simulate rain, and large fans can be used to simulate wind. Another common special effect is filming an actor behind the wheel of a car as if he is driving, but the car and camera are actually being transported on a trailer.
Simulated weather, explosions and gunfire, and car crashes are all examples of special effects used in film and television production. Makeup effects, which include fake wounds, age effects, and elaborate processes that can change almost every aspect of a performer’s appearance, are another category. Special effects, such as a collapsing building or other catastrophic event, can be incorporated into set design. A separate technician or effects team is in charge of each effect. Working with the director and other high-level technicians, such as the stunt coordinator, the special effects supervisor oversees all of these different departments.
The role of the special effects supervisor has evolved dramatically throughout film history. Most special effects had to be created on set during filming before animated or digital effects were common, necessitating very expensive and time-consuming preparation. Many sequences that would be difficult or impossible to film are created in post-production with CGI and other visual effects in the twenty-first century. Although CGI can be costly and time-consuming, many effects are still created on set. These are commonly referred to as “practical” or “in-camera” effects in the film industry.
It’s risky to create special effects, especially explosions and car chases. The special effects supervisor is in charge of ensuring the cast and crew’s safety on set. In the event of an accident, this person, not the director or producer, is usually held responsible. The special effects supervisor is also in charge of the overall quality of the effects in a production. If a key effect is unconvincing or amateurish, the entire production may be criticized, and the special effects supervisor may have difficulty finding another job.