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How has the use of special effects evolved over the years?

Jevon Radborn

Well, if we think about it, the use of special effects has come a long way since the beginning of cinema. Back in the early days, there were very few special effects available, so filmmakers had to rely on simpler techniques like practical effects, makeup, and set designs. They had to be really creative in order to create the illusion of things that weren't really there.

But as technology advanced, special effects became more and more sophisticated. One of the biggest breakthroughs was the use of CGI, or computer-generated imagery. This allowed filmmakers to create things that were impossible to achieve with practical effects alone, like flying dragons or entire cities being destroyed.

Another big step forward was the use of motion capture technology. This involves recording an actor's movements and then using that data to create a digital character that moves and behaves in the same way. This has been used in a lot of big blockbuster films in the past few years, like the Planet of the Apes series.

But it's not just movies that have benefitted from special effects. They've also become a big part of video games, TV shows, and even social media. AR filters on Instagram and Snapchat are a great example of this – they allow users to add special effects to their photos and videos in real time, like adding bunny ears or a halo to your head.

However, there has been some criticism over the years about the reliance on special effects in movies. Some people argue that too many CGI-heavy films can leave viewers feeling emotionally disconnected, as they're not seeing real people and things on screen. There's also the issue of overreliance on effects in films, with some directors using them to cover up subpar storytelling.

Overall, though, I think it's fair to say that special effects have come a long way over the years, and they're only going to get more impressive as technology continues to advance. As long as filmmakers use them in moderation and to enhance their stories, I think they'll remain an important part of movie-making for years to come.