special effects

NOUN

special film techniques

Synonyms

WEAK

FX animation mechanical effects optical effects process photography

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Best special effects went to James Cameron's blockbuster Avatar: Fire and Ash, replicating its win in the same category for the original movie in the hit franchise back in 2010.

From BBC • Feb. 22, 2026

"Young people think they're adding special effects, when in fact they're cramping the style."

From Barron's • Feb. 18, 2026

Her father, Don, was a cinematic and special effects wizard who worked on numerous Disney attractions, including the Michael Jackson-starring film “Captain EO.”

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 22, 2026

Mr. Birney has a mesmerizing ability to create special effects via the simplest measures, such as by creating a shimmering, magical figure out of what looks like simply an overexposed bit of film.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 8, 2026

The fireworks were by Gandalf: they were not only brought by him, but designed and made by him; and the special effects, set pieces, and flights of rockets were let off by him.

From "The Fellowship of the Ring" by J.R.R. Tolkien