P1

 

Understand special effects techniques

P1 - Due 18/01/2021

Pass Criteria

Analyse a range of special effects techniques and their use in film and TV production using examples from a variety of audio-visual media products

Evidence

You need to analyse 3 different sequences that use special effects.

You will write up your findings as a blog post, you need to embed the sequences you have analysed in the post. You should also use still images to illustrate your points. 

To help you in your analysis you need to use the grid provided to make notes before you write up your analysis.

Your analysis should cover the following:

Introduce the SFX, name of the movie and the sequence you are analysing.

• What is the purpose of the SFX? Does the SFX work & look convincing?

• Role of the SFX co-ordinator (this may be different depending on the size of the production)

• The function of the SFX - What impact is it meant to have? Why is it being used? some responses could include to keep the budget down, manoeuvrability and the practicality of filming large scale props like space ships and their interaction with the characters.

• The aesthetic appeal to the audience of the SFX

• The realisation of the SFX including the materials, processes & techniques used in its construction. What other aspects of film making have been used to create the effect? eg lighting, locations, costumes, props, camera angles, sound, editing techniques

You should use the 3 sequences below to complete this task. Each one has a different type SFX technique. You should use the supporting videos.

Jason and the Argonauts (Chaffey 1963)

Ray Harryhausen discusses special effects from the film Jason and the Argonauts.

Star Wars (Lucas 1977)

Bruce Logan on the Death Star explosions

American Werewolf in London (Landis 1981) 

Behind the Scenes clips with John Landis and Rick Baker