Why Some Directors Still Prefer the Old School

In today’s era of advanced CGI and digital wizardry, it might seem counterintuitive for filmmakers to rely on traditional, hands-on methods to create movie magic. Yet, practical effects—those done physically on set rather than through computer graphics—are experiencing a revival. Despite the allure of slick digital effects, many directors are opting to use practical effects, breathing new life into a method that dominated cinema for decades.

But why? Why choose foam latex, pyrotechnics, and miniatures over digital convenience? The answer lies in the timeless appeal of authenticity, the tactile nature of physical effects, and the visceral impact they have on both filmmakers and audiences.

What Are Practical Effects?

Practical effects refer to any on-set, physical techniques used to create illusions for the camera. This includes everything from makeup and prosthetics to miniatures, animatronics, and pyrotechnics. Rather than relying on post-production or computer-generated imagery (CGI), practical effects are crafted in real time, offering a sense of immediacy and realism that is difficult to replicate digitally.

Before the rise of CGI, practical effects were the go-to method for filmmakers, bringing to life everything from epic space battles to heart-pounding action scenes. Today, they’re often seen as a nod to the craftsmanship and artistry that defined earlier eras of filmmaking.

The Timeless Appeal of Practical Effects

There’s something undeniably tangible about practical effects that resonate with viewers. It’s the weight of a physical object on the screen, the genuine reactions of actors interacting with a real-life creature or explosion. When done right, practical effects can create a seamless blend of reality and fantasy, making the audience believe in the impossible.

Authenticity and Realism

Directors like Christopher Nolan (Inception, Dunkirk) and George Miller (Mad Max: Fury Road) have been staunch advocates of practical effects, citing their ability to lend a sense of authenticity that CGI often struggles to match. In Mad Max: Fury Road, for instance, Miller used real stunt work and practical explosions, creating a gritty, kinetic energy that propelled the film’s intensity. Practical effects are grounded in reality. When explosions happen on set, the fire, smoke, and debris react naturally to the environment. The light reflects off surfaces the way it would in real life. These details create a more immersive experience for the audience.

The Actor's Experience

For actors, interacting with real objects, sets, and prosthetics can often lead to more genuine performances. It’s easier to convey fear or awe when standing in front of a real, menacing animatronic creature rather than reacting to a green screen. Directors like Guillermo del Toro (Pan's Labyrinth, The Shape of Water) have long championed the use of practical effects for this very reason, believing that real environments lead to more authentic performances.

When actors engage with something tangible, their reactions feel more natural. It also allows for a richer, more emotional performance, as they’re able to draw from their real surroundings rather than relying solely on imagination.

Balancing Practical Effects and CGI

While practical effects bring undeniable authenticity, CGI has its place in modern filmmaking. Some of the most successful films today use a combination of the two, blending the best of both worlds to create rich, immersive cinematic experiences. Filmmakers like Denis Villeneuve (Blade Runner 2049) and Jon Favreau (The Mandalorian) have mastered this balance, using practical effects as the foundation while enhancing them with CGI for a seamless look.

Practical Effects in Modern Cinema

The return to practical effects in big-budget productions proves that this old-school technique still has a place in modern cinema. Directors understand the nostalgic and aesthetic value of practical effects, but they also recognize their technical merits.

The Success of Practical-Heavy Films

Films like Star Wars: The Force Awakens (2015) intentionally used practical effects, hearkening back to the original trilogy’s reliance on miniatures, puppetry, and real sets. Director J.J. Abrams worked hard to recapture the tactile quality that defined the early Star Wars films. By building physical droids and sets, Abrams transported audiences back to a world that felt more grounded and real, earning widespread praise for blending practical and digital effects. Similarly, Christopher Nolan’s Tenet (2020) features jaw-dropping practical stunts, including a real Boeing 747 crashing into a building. Nolan’s commitment to realism adds to the film’s immersive and intense atmosphere, making the action sequences more tangible and thrilling. The return to practical effects offers a unique blend of nostalgia and modern filmmaking craftsmanship. These films demonstrate that practical effects can not only hold their own against CGI but, when combined, the result can be a breathtaking visual experience.

The Future of Practical Effects

As filmmakers continue to explore the boundaries of what’s possible in cinema, practical effects will likely remain a staple of the industry. While CGI will undoubtedly play a critical role in shaping the future of film, the revival of practical effects proves that there’s still something magical about the old ways. For directors who grew up admiring the work of legends like Ray Harryhausen or Stan Winston, practical effects offer a way to pay homage to cinema’s roots while pushing storytelling into new, innovative directions.

Conclusion: The Best of Both Worlds

The revival of practical effects isn’t about rejecting modern technology—it’s about using the best tools for the job. By blending practical and digital effects, filmmakers can create worlds that feel more immersive, dynamic, and emotionally resonant.

In the end, it’s not about old vs. new; it’s about the artistry behind the craft. Whether it’s through a carefully constructed miniature or a beautifully rendered CGI creation, what matters most is how these effects make us feel. And there’s no denying the special place practical effects hold in the hearts of filmmakers and audiences alike.