When it comes to blockbuster movies, we're all familiar with the jaw-dropping special effects that transport us to fantastical worlds and bring larger-than-life characters to the big screen. But have you ever wondered what those movies would look like without all the CGI wizardry? Well, wonder no more! From superheroes to sci-fi epics, these pictures offer a glimpse into the hard work and attention to detail that goes into making movie magic happen.
Today, we've compiled 12 awesome pictures that reveal the behind-the-scenes reality of some of your favorite films. You'll see actors suspended on wires, holding props that will later be replaced with digital creations. You'll witness green screens used to create entire environments that never existed in real life. And you'll appreciate the artistry of practical effects, which often go unnoticed in the midst of flashy CGI. So if you're ready to see how the sausage is made, or just want to gain a greater appreciation for the technical mastery of modern filmmaking, then dive into these 12 awesome pictures that show how movies would look without special effects. Keep scrolling down and check them out!
#1. "Everest".
Source: Pinterest
"Everest" is a 2015 biographical adventure film that tells the story of a group of climbers attempting to summit Mount Everest. In the movie, CGI was used to create the mountain itself, along with snow, ice, and other environmental elements.
One of the most impressive uses of CGI in "Everest" was the creation of the Khumbu Icefall, a notoriously difficult section of the climb. Filmed on location in Nepal, the production team used a combination of practical effects and CGI to bring this treacherous area to life, creating a realistic and immersive experience for the audience.
#2. "John Wick 3".
Source: Pinterest
"John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum" is a 2019 action thriller film that follows the titular character, played by Keanu Reeves, as he fights for survival against a horde of assassins. CGI was used to enhance the practical effects used during filming. This included creating digital blood splatters and muzzle flashes to make the gunfights look more realistic.
Additionally, CGI was used to create the film's numerous explosions and special effects, such as the destruction of glass windows and walls.
#3. "300 Spartans: Rise of an Empire".
Source: Pinterest
"300: Rise of an Empire" is a 2014 epic historical action film that tells the story of the Battle of Salamis, which took place in 480 BC between the Greek city-states and the Persian Empire. The movie features intense battle scenes, stunning visuals, and larger-than-life characters, many of which were made possible through the use of computer-generated imagery (CGI).
The use of CGI in "300: Rise of an Empire" helped to create a visually stunning film that brought the ancient Battle of Salamis to life in vivid detail.
#4. Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest.
Source: Pinterest
"Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest" is a 2006 swashbuckling adventure film that follows Captain Jack Sparrow as he searches for the chest containing the heart of Davy Jones. One of the most impressive uses of CGI in "Dead Man's Chest" was the creation of the Davy Jones character, played by Bill Nighy.
Using motion capture technology, Nighy's facial expressions and movements were captured and transferred onto a CGI model, allowing the character to have a realistic appearance despite his otherworldly features.
#5. "Man of Steel".
Source: Pinterest
"Man of Steel" is a 2013 superhero film that tells the origin story of Superman, from his birth on Krypton to his arrival on Earth and eventual emergence as a hero.
Filmmakers extensively used CGI to create the otherworldly environments of Krypton and the spectacular displays of superhuman power exhibited by Superman. This included digitally creating the alien planet of Krypton, along with its complex architecture and technology.
#6. "The jungle book".
Source: Pinterest
#7. "Tarzan. Legend".
Source: Pinterest
"Tarzan. Legend of Tarzan" is a 2016 adventure film that tells the story of Tarzan, a man raised by gorillas in the African jungle who must return to his human roots to save his home from destruction. One of the most impressive uses of CGI in "Legend of Tarzan" was the creation of the character Akut, an enormous male gorilla who becomes Tarzan's ally and protector.
Using motion capture technology, actor Djimon Hounsou's facial expressions and movements were captured and transferred onto a CGI model, creating a realistic and expressive character that interacts seamlessly with the live-action footage.
#8. "Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald".
Source: Pinterest
#9. "Men in Black: International".
Source: Pinterest
"Men in Black: International" is a 2019 science fiction action comedy film that serves as a spin-off of the original "Men in Black" trilogy. The advantage of CGI in "Men in Black: International" helped to create a visually stunning film that brought the fantastical elements of the story to life.
By seamlessly integrating CGI with live-action footage, the filmmakers were able to create a truly immersive experience for the audience, transporting them into the imaginative world of the Men in Black franchise.
#10. Avengers: Infinity War.
Source: Pinterest
#11. "Captain Marvel"
Source: Pinterest
"Captain Marvel" is a 2019 superhero film set in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. The film crew took advantage of CGI in "Captain Marvel" which helped to create a visually stunning film that brought the epic story to life. This amazing cat is a good example.
What do you think about movie magic? Share your opinion with us now!
#12. "I'm a legend".
Source: Pinterest
"I Am Legend" is a 2007 post-apocalyptic science fiction film that tells the story of Robert Neville, a scientist who is immune to a virus that has turned the world's population into zombie-like creatures. One of the most impressive uses of CGI in "I Am Legend" was the creation of the character Samantha, a German Shepherd dog that serves as Robert Neville's companion throughout the movie.
Using motion capture technology, the filmmakers were able to create a believable and expressive appearance for the dog, even during intense action sequences.