Special Effects: The Unsung Hero of Film Production

Want to use your creativity, and love the idea of working in the film industry? 

Are you a fan of Spider-Man? British academy film award-winner, Tom Holland, has just been re-cast to play this leading ‘superhero’ role. Wouldn’t it be exciting to be able to use your creativity on the special effects team that generates the illusion of him walking up walls? Or, what about the digitally created high school fight scene between The Lizard and Spider-Man? These creative special effects are 100% created using computer technology. What about the scenes in the popular Harry Potter films when a spell is cast? These are more examples of digital special effects that are created for entertainment purposes. Sound interesting? So, how can we specifically define film fx?  

Film fx, the term that is often used to describe special or visual effects, opens the door to a variety of behind-the-scenes careers in movies, TV, or computer-based animation. If you’re wondering what the role is of a special effect professional, they will first map out their concepts by storyboarding, before using high-technology computer software to deliver their creations. Sound good? In this case, considering a career as a video game designer, 3D film animator, or visual effects compositor could be a great idea. 

What Top Movies use Film FX?  

You might be wondering; if film fx is such an imperative part of media production; “where have I seen it before?” The reality is, film fx has played a pivotal role in many top-selling movies. Notice any of your favourites? 

- Avatar  
- Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows 
- Iron Man 
- Jurassic Park 
- King Kong 
- Life of Pi 

Why Study Film FX at Bolton? 

Film fx can give you the skills to take on hands-on studies in the creative, historical, and technical aspects of special effects design. For instance, students on our BDes (Hons) Special Effects for Film and Television course gain the opportunity to learn how to make movie magic and TV thrills! It is a great choice for students who wish to combine design creativity, physical model-making skills, special prosthetic make-up effects, and cutting-edge 2D and 3D computer modelling and prototyping for special effects creation. We understand that film and TV production uses both physical and digital effects, so we are proud to offer our students the hands-on experience they need in a wide range of special effects disciplines.  

As a Bolton student, you will study in our Centre for Film FX, and attend regular lectures from world-famous guest speakers like Neill Gorton, the multi-award-winning artist/designer, founder of the world-renowned Millennium FX company. Our film fx students build a network of professional contacts, attend events, and take on industry projects so that you are equipped to take the film industry by storm after you graduate. This is why we have been voted a leading Greater Manchester university for Student Satisfaction; we care about our students and put their needs first*, welcome to #UniAsItShouldBe. 

Want to find out more about our film fx courses? Click here and choose the right course to pursue your passion for special effects. 

Taking the Make-Up Route 
 
Alternatively, you might like to explore a different creative route away from the computer/digital world. In this case, you might want to investigate a special effects make-up course; at Bolton University, we give our students access to our BDes (Hons) Special Effects Make-Up Effects for Film and TV course. We teach them the art of turning movie stars into monsters; making characters look in a way that can’t be captured live or creating live-action special effects shots. Look at the villain, Voldemort, from Harry Potter. Have you wondered how much make-up that took to realistically turn the english actor, Ralph Fiennes into his character? This is why film fx is the unsung hero of media production. It often falls off the radar as it all happens behind-the-scenes, but it can make or break a TV show or film in terms of viewer entertainment. A special effects make-up course can also open the door to a variety of careers. Alongside TV and movies, as a certified special FX make-up artist, you will gain the chance to work on editorial make-up projects, and theatre; meaning that with experience, you could get your name into the credits of special productions, regardless of how big or small!  

At the University of Bolton, we will help you turn your special and visual effects passion into a career by giving you the skills to graduate and gain the experience to enjoy a career as a talented special effects professional. Look at our course details to learn more. 
 
Bolton University Clearing  
 
Wondering what Clearing is? It ensures that it is not too late to decide that you want to study at university and is open until 19 September. If you are interested in pursuing a career in the film fx industry, have a look at the courses we offer through Bolton University Clearing. Come and enjoy the positive, supportive learning environment that our students love.  
 
Wish to speak to a member of our Clearing team? Give us a call on 01204 903030.  
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At Bolton, we are proud to offer a socially inclusive university where we are here to help, and we understand that visiting a university in-person is a great way of getting a first-hand feel for the place. That’s why you can come and meet us by registering for one of our on-campus Study Advice Sessions! You will be able to access support from representatives from student finance, careers services, student services, and disability services, and we will answer any questions you may have. Book your place now. 
 
- Friday 19 August 2022 – 11am to 4pm  
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- Thursday 1 September – 11am to 4pm  
 
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