In recent years, Hollywood’s reliance on computer-generated imagery (CGI) has led to a decline in the quality of movies, making them feel fake and lazy. The industry’s shift away from practical effects, such as puppets, animatronics, and makeup, has resulted in forgettable and visually unappealing films, leaving audiences craving more originality and authenticity. However, 2023 has seen a surprising resurgence of demand for practical effects, with movies like Barbie and Oppenheimer dominating the box office and nostalgic films failing to impress.
The use of practical effects in the 1970s and 1980s was unparalleled, creating breathtaking visuals and a sense of realism and immersion in films like Bullitt, The French Connection, and Jurassic Park. Even horror movies like The Thing and Gremlins relied on practical effects to create a sense of tension and fear. The combination of miniatures, stop-motion, and animatronics used in these films resulted in a level of authenticity and wonder that is often lacking in modern movies.
The introduction of CGI in the 1990s changed the terrain of filmmaking, leading to a decline in practical effects. While CGI allowed for new levels of creativity, it also led to a reliance on digital effects, resulting in lazy, cartoon-like visuals in films like The Flash and Black Adam. Even usually reliable franchises like Marvel and Star Wars fell victim to the CGI overdose.
A Still From Barbie Movie (Photo: Barbie)
However, fans are pushing back against the trend, opting for more authentic experiences and nostalgic films that rely on practical effects. The success of Barbie and Oppenheimer shows that audiences are hungry for something new and original. Additionally, the success of Top Gun: Maverick and The Mandalorian, which used practical effects to create realistic and immersive visuals, demonstrates that there is a demand for more realistic filmmaking.
As the film industry continues to evolve, it is clear that a balance between practical and digital effects is key. Directors and filmmakers must learn to harness the power of CGI while also embracing the art of practical effects. By doing so, they can create movies that are both visually stunning and emotionally resonant. The return to practical effects could be the key to a new golden age of cinema, where films are once again loved for their authenticity and originality.
