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<p>The <em>Dune</em> films have some of the most visually stunning effects in modern cinema, so when I saw <em>Dune: Part Two</em> nominated (and winning!) Best Visual Effects at the Oscars, I knew I had to make something inspired by it.</p>
<p>Armed with a few simple materials, a green screen, and some <a href="https://actionvfx.com/products">assets from ActionVFX</a>, I created my own Dune-inspired shot in my at-home studio. Here’s how I did it.</p>
<p><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Hw7r4Dwg3TE" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></p>
<h2>Step 1: Building the Filt Plug for the Stillsuit</h2>
<p>If you’ve seen <em>Dune</em>, you’ll recognize the Filt Plug— the small black tube that connects from the back of the head to the nostrils in the stillsuit. You can buy them for cosplay, but I wanted the challenge of making one myself.</p>
<p>So, I took a trip to Lowe’s and found exactly what I needed: flexible tubing and a 90-degree connector. Back at my workspace, I:</p>
<ul>
<li>Cut the tubing a little longer than necessary.</li>
<li>Trimmed the sharp point off the connector.</li>
<li>Heated and molded the tubing to fit my face (without burning myself, thankfully).</li>
<li>Adjusted the fit by bending it over my ear and trimming the excess.</li>
</ul>
<p>With that, the Filt Plug was done! Next, I grabbed my shemagh from my airsoft days, and it was time to set up the shot.</p>
<p><img src="https://a-us.storyblok.com/f/1002378/1920x1080/d0d5cb2e8c/dune-diy-filt-plug.jpg" alt=""></p>
<h2>Step 2: Lighting and Filming</h2>
<p>Lighting plays a massive role in selling the illusion. To match the <em>Dune</em> aesthetic, I set up:</p>
<ul>
<li>A strong light over my shoulder to mimic the harsh desert sun.</li>
<li>An LED panel with a softbox in front of me for subtle fill lighting.</li>
<li>Tube lights to evenly light the green screen.</li>
<li>A box fan to add a little movement for realism.</li>
</ul>
<p>To create the effect of dried skin from the desert air, I relied on my lack of a skincare routine—finally, a benefit! With everything in place, I recorded multiple takes, eventually choosing the most natural-looking performance.</p>
<p><img src="https://a-us.storyblok.com/f/1002378/1920x1080/5edb56b313/dune-diy-vfx-bts.jpg" alt=""></p>
<h2>Step 3: Keying and Compositing the Shot in After Effects</h2>
<p>Once filming was done, I moved into After Effects to composite everything together. Here’s how I built the scene:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Pre-composing</strong> – The footage was shot in 6K, but working at that resolution isn’t practical or fast. I pre-composed it so After Effects would treat it as 2K when applying effects.</li>
<li><strong>Keying the Green Screen</strong> – Using the built-in Keylight plugin, I removed the background and adjusted the alpha contrast.</li>
<li><strong>Flipping the Background for Lighting Consistency</strong> – Since my highlights were on the left and the background’s were on the right, I flipped the desert plate horizontally to match.</li>
</ul>
<p><img src="https://a-us.storyblok.com/f/1002378/1920x1080/c6ee29e26e/dune-movie-bts.jpg" alt=""></p>
<h3>Adding the Sandstorm</h3>
<p>To create the iconic dust storms of Arrakis, I had to get creative. By repurposing <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/blizzard-snow-stock-footage">Blizzard Snow</a> assets from ActionVFX, I got exactly what I was looking for. With a few adjustments:</p>
<ul>
<li>I flipped them horizontally to match the wind direction.</li>
<li>Used Unmult to remove the black background.</li>
<li>Tinted the snow an orange-brown hue.</li>
<li>Staggered multiple layers with different scale, color, and luminance to add depth.</li>
</ul>
<p>To maintain visibility of the dunes, I duplicated the background, brought it above some of the Blizzard Snow layers, masked only the bottom, and feathered it. This helped blend everything seamlessly.</p>
<h3>Creating the Spice Particles</h3>
<p>No Dune-inspired shot is complete without spice floating in the air. I used ActionVFX <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/dust-particles-stock-footage">Dust Particles</a> and:</p>
<ul>
<li>Tinted them red-orange to match the look of spice.</li>
<li>Set the blending mode to Add for a glowing effect.</li>
<li>Adjusted speed and opacity for a more organic look.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Step 4: Enhancing the Shot with the Blue Eyes Effect</h2>
<p>In the <em>Dune</em> universe, exposure to spice turns a person’s eyes blue. To achieve this, I:</p>
<ul>
<li>Motion-tracked my eyes to keep the effect locked in place.</li>
<li>Used an <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/eye-textures-stock-footage">eye texture</a> from ActionVFX to enhance the vibrancy.</li>
<li>Created a blue solid layer and set it to Color blending mode.</li>
<li>Masked and feathered the eyes for a natural transition.</li>
</ul>
<p>This process required a lot of manual <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/how-to-do-motion-tracking-with-mocha-ae-beginner-friendly-after-effects-tutorial">tracking</a>, but the result was worth it!</p>
<h2>Step 5: Final Touches – Noise, Lens Flares, and Camera Shake</h2>
<p>To make the shot feel even more immersive, I added:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Organic Dust Motion</strong> – Using directional blur and noise textures, I made the foreground Blizzard Snow layers feel more like sand particles, and simulated the chaotic movement of dust particles in the wind.</li>
<li><strong>A Lens Flare</strong> – I used an <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/Icon-anamorphic-lens-flares-stock-footage">Icon: Anamorphic Lens Flare</a> from ActionVFX, tweaking the contrast and hue for a warm, cinematic glow.</li>
<li><strong>Subtle Camera Shake</strong> – Added a slight handheld effect for realism.</li>
<li><strong>Final Color Grade</strong> – Using DaVinci Resolve, I fine-tuned the colors for a more cohesive desert look.</li>
</ul>
<p><img src="https://a-us.storyblok.com/f/1002378/1920x1080/d8474aea51/dune-vfx-shot.jpg" alt=""></p>
<h2>The Final Result</h2>
<p>After all these steps, the shot was complete! What started as a small room with a green screen became an intense, cinematic sandstorm straight out of Arrakis.</p>
<p>If you’re working on a project and need high-quality, ready-to-use VFX assets, ActionVFX has you covered. Whether it’s fire, rain, debris, or even spice-filled sandstorms, you can <a href="https://actionvfx.com/products">find the right assets</a> to bring your vision to life.</p>
<p>Now go make something awesome! And if you use any of these techniques in a project, drop a comment in the video—who knows, maybe you will be the next ActionVFX user accepting an Oscar. (P.S.<a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/godzilla-minus-one-vfx-oscar-on-a-budget">You wouldn't be the first!</a>)</p>
<p><strong><a href="https://actionvfx.com/products">Explore VFX Assets</a></strong></p>
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Armed with a few simple materials, a green screen, and some assets from ActionVFX, I created my own Dune-inspired shot in my at-home studio.

How I Recreated Dune: Part Two VFX in My At-Home Studio

Armed with a few simple materials, a green screen, and some assets from ActionVFX, I created my own Dune-inspired shot in my at-home studio with After Effects.

<p>If you’re looking for 2023’s standout films, <em>Godzilla Minus One</em> is hard to miss. Not only did it tell a compelling story—something fans often felt was missing in previous Godzilla films—but its visual effects were phenomenal. And to top it all off, the film’s VFX team at Shirogumi walked away with a well-earned <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h3q7SaXhCPE">Oscar® for Best Visual Effects</a>, marking the first time a Japanese film has won an Academy Award® for VFX.</p>
<p>What’s even more impressive? They did it all on a $15 million budget, while most blockbusters cost well over $150 million. We’re excited that ActionVFX was one of the key resources Shirogumi compositors used to streamline production and create hollywood-level VFX.</p>
<p>With so many high-budget films <a href="https://3dvf.com/en/no-cgi-is-really-just-invisible-cgi-a-must-watch-series-of-videos/">downplaying or even lying</a> about the work of VFX artists, it’s refreshing to see the artists at Shirogumi getting the recognition they deserve for their extraordinary VFX in <em>Godzilla Minus One</em>.</p>
<p>We had the privilege of interviewing <a href="https://www.imdb.com/name/nm7111903/">Ryo Matsumoto</a>, one of the nine compositing artists at Shirogumi’s Chofu Studio. Ryo’s team won the Oscar® for Best Visual Effects for their work on the film. Ryo gave us a behind-the-scenes look at <em>Godzilla Minus One</em> and talked about how ActionVFX helped them create award-winning VFX on a budget.</p>
<p><strong>Watch the full interview:</strong>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/rocH7GZIll0" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></p>
<h1>Shirogumi: The VFX Studio Behind Godzilla Minus One</h1>
<p><a href="https://shirogumi.com/">Shirogumi</a> is one of Japan’s top VFX studios, known for handling 3D animation, simulations, and complex effects on limited budgets. You might have seen their work in <em>Parasyte 1</em> and <em>2</em> or <em>The Eternal Zero</em>. But with <em>Godzilla Minus One</em>, they’ve taken things to the next level.</p>
<h1>VFX in Godzilla Minus One</h1>
<p><em>Godzilla Minus One</em> features 610 VFX shots, making up an incredible two-thirds of the entire movie. The VFX team responsible for the film consisted of 35 artists, 9 of whom were responsible for compositing. They used a mix of Nuke for compositing, Houdini for simulations, and Maya and Blender for CG.</p>
<p>Ryo explained, “In order to make the best use of limited resources, each of us had several different roles other than working on individual shots. Some of us were on set, some worked on previews, R&amp;D, or look development. Some worked on both CG and compositing.” Ryo himself was responsible for compositing 88 shots. He also worked on look development and creating Python scripts for Nuke.</p>
<p><img src="https://a-us.storyblok.com/f/1002378/2000x1125/f6bffd532e/godzilla-minus-one-bts-city-destruction.jpg" alt="Godzilla walking through the city | Godzilla Minus One, Ryo Matsumoto"></p>
<p>Shirogumi’s success really boiled down to smart use of resources, a talented team, and great communication with the director.</p>
<h2>Streamlined Approval Process Led to Better Communication</h2>
<p>Unlike many large VFX teams that deal with long approval chains, Shirogumi had a major advantage—writer and director <a href="https://www.vfxvoice.com/takashi-yamazaki-achieves-kaiju-size/">Takashi Yamazaki</a> was also the VFX supervisor. This meant the artists had direct access to him for feedback.</p>
<p>“The director is usually stationed in the studio, so we, the artists, can ask him to check our shots whenever we're ready. Once we get approval from the director, we are free to improve the quality as much as we want. Sometimes we even suggest adding new shots if we think that makes it better,” Ryo shared.</p>
<h2>Limited Practical Effects Helped Them Stick to a Budget</h2>
<p>With a modest budget, the use of practical effects was limited. Instead, <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/how-to-create-epic-set-extensions-with-vfx">CG set extensions</a> and <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3HrxAAcB2dM">VFX elements</a> from ActionVFX helped build the realistic scenes, saving millions of dollars.</p>
<p>For example, as Yamazaki mentions in this breakdown, all of the ships in the film use the same practical set, and illusions of movement were created using a combination of cranes and actor performance.
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/T4pi1F25sxg" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></p>
<p>This scene of Godzilla destroying a CG city showcases the phenomenal work of Shirogumi’s VFX artists:
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/IS_JthTUtJY" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></p>
<p>This breakdown does a good job of showing how intricate the VFX team’s work needed to be, but also how effective it was.
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/GqnnmtrW6TM" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></p>
<p>Far from being a disadvantage, their use of VFX allowed them to tell a story that would not be possible without the technologies of our day. Godzilla’s head alone had a 200 million polygon count. As director Yamazaki said in an interview, “Before all the digital technology and what we have access to today, when Godzilla was still filmed using a suit, a lot of the physical limitations of a rubber suit implied that it was only the size of a human. That limited what filmmakers could do with things like the level of detail regarding how Godzilla affects its surrounding water or the destruction of cities.”</p>
<p>Maybe Christopher Nolan should have gotten the memo from Yamazaki…</p>
<h2>ActionVFX Stock Footage Saved Time &amp; Money</h2>
<p>One of the tools that gave the team at Shirogumi a significant leg up was the availability of VFX stock elements. Specifically, the team leaned on <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/products">ActionVFX’s assets</a>.</p>
<p>If you’re not familiar with VFX stock elements, here’s a quick explainer:
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/3HrxAAcB2dM" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></p>
<p>Ryo explained how critical these elements were: “There are times when you just need to place atmospheric smoke, fire, or dust explosions around Godzilla's feet. That's when ActionVFX comes in handy.” He also noted that using pre-shot, realistic elements helped ground the CG sequences, creating a more believable final product.</p>
<p>Here's a reel highlighting some scenes using a wide variety ActionVFX collections like <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/dust-waves-vol-2-stock-footage">Dust Waves Vol. 1</a>, <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/dust-explosions-stock-footage">Dust Explosions Vol. 1</a>, <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/ground-bursts-stock-footage">Ground Bursts</a>, and more:
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/PS8dy98HumY" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></p>
<p>More importantly, using <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/products">pre-made VFX elements</a> from ActionVFX saved the team a tremendous amount of time and allowed them to focus on polishing other areas of the film. As Ryo added, “Even if you have a schedule with plenty of time, with the extra time you get from using such assets, you can work on something else to improve the quality—or you can just go home and take a rest.”</p>
<p>It is a huge honor that the team at Shirogumi relies on <a href="https://actionvfx.com/products">our assets</a> so much. As Ryo told us, &quot;When it comes to pre-made VFX assets, the first thing that comes to our mind is ActionVFX.&quot;</p>
<p>You can download the <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/smoke/category">smoke</a>, <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/fire/category">fire</a>, and <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/explosions/category">explosion</a> assets Shirogumi used in our library.</p>
<p><img src="https://a-us.storyblok.com/f/1002378/1920x823/2132925ea3/godzilla-minus-one-city-destruction-vfx.jpg" alt=""></p>
<h1>Takeaways from Godzilla Minus One for VFX Artists and Studios</h1>
<p><strong>Versatility Wins:</strong> On smaller-budget projects like Godzilla Minus One, the ability to take on multiple <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/vfx-careers-a-complete-guide-to-vfx-salaries-and-getting-started">roles</a>—whether it's compositing, CG, or writing custom scripts—can be a game-changer. Being flexible and proficient in tools like Nuke, Maya, Blender, or Houdini allows you to contribute more across the board.</p>
<p><strong>Clear Communication is Key:</strong> Direct access to decision-makers like the director helped the team work faster and make better choices. It also gave the artists more creative control over the movie.</p>
<p><strong>Make the Most of What You Have:</strong> Shirogumi relied on set extensions, FX simulations, and ActionVFX stock footage to pull off some incredible scenes. If they can impress audiences with a $15 million budget, so can you!</p>
<p><strong>Stock Footage Saves Time:</strong> Using <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/products">stock elements from ActionVFX</a> helped the team work faster and add details to make the visuals more grounded and realistic. That extra time let them focus on the finer details—and, sometimes, even <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/how-crafty-apes-use-actionvfx-products-to-gain-a-competitive-edge">head home a little earlier</a>!</p>
<p><em>Godzilla Minus One</em> shows what can happen when a talented VFX team gets creative with <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/5-critical-vfx-tips-for-filmmakers-on-a-budget">limited resources</a>. By being smart with their tools and working well together, Shirogumi managed to produce an Oscar®-winning film that rivals big-budget blockbusters. It’s a solid reminder for VFX artists that sometimes creativity and teamwork matter more than how big the budget is.</p>
<h2>You Can Use Oscar-Worthy VFX Assets</h2>
<p>New to ActionVFX? Our library of over 11,000 hollywood-quality VFX assets are <a href="https://actionvfx.com/testimonials">trusted by 300,000 VFX artists</a> and studios worldwide. We are proud to be relied on by visual effects teams for blockbuster movies, games, and shows like <em>Avengers: Endgame</em>, <em>Spider-Man: Far from Home</em>, <em>Stranger Things</em>, <em>The Walking Dead</em>, <em>Call of Duty</em>, and many more.</p>
<p>The ActionVFX library contains a wide variety of VFX assets from massive explosions or atmospheric effects to beetles and blood stains; and new assets are added every month. If these would help streamline your VFX workflow like they did for Shirogumi, <strong><a href="https://actionvfx.com/products">explore our library</a></strong>!</p>
<p><strong>ActionVFX socials:</strong>
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@ActionVFXofficial">YouTube</a> - <a href="https://www.facebook.com/actionvfx/">Facebook</a> - <a href="https://www.instagram.com/actionvfxofficial/">Instagram</a> - <a href="https://twitter.com/actionvfx?lang=en">X</a> - <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@actionvfxofficial?lang=en">TikTok</a> - <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/actionvfx">Linkedin</a></p>


Learn about Godzilla Minus One's Oscar®-winning VFX on a $15 million budget and key takeaways for VFX artists.

Godzilla Minus One: Oscar-winning VFX on a Budget

How Shirogumi used ActionVFX to create VFX that won an Oscar® on a budget.

<p>One of the privileges of working in a supporting role for the VFX industry is that we get to meet talented artists across the VFX industry. Recently, we had the opportunity to speak with <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNFBdbfWsd-BMDfo1KIEYeg">filmmaker Chris Connor</a> to discuss his journey in the VFX industry, and how ActionVFX has supported him along the way.</p>
<h2>Chris’s Story: From VFX to Filmmaking</h2>
<p>Chris is a full time filmmaker working on motorsport commercials and independent short films. In addition to <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNFBdbfWsd-BMDfo1KIEYeg">running a YouTube channel</a> that creates educational and entertainment content focused on filmmaking, Chris created <a href="https://www.guerrilla-filmmaker.com/">Guerilla Filmmaking</a>, an advanced filmmaking course library.</p>
<p><img src="https://a-us.storyblok.com/f/1002378/1891x688/d34195d6f9/guerrilla_filmmaking_website.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p>When Chris entered the filmmaking industry, he began by first learning and understanding VFX. This approach gives him a unique perspective on filmmaking–one centered around visual effects. “I know <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/don-t-fix-it-in-post-production-the-importance-of-getting-it-right-the-first-time">what I can pull off in post-production</a> before I start crafting a story and hitting record.”</p>
<blockquote>
<p>&quot;My favorite aspect of VFX is the ability to unlock one’s filmmaking creativity and bring images to life that can spark the viewer’s imagination and immerse them into a world and story.&quot;</p>
</blockquote>
<p>Reflecting on the influence of video games on his craft, Chris reminisced, &quot;Since I was a kid and got my hands on a PlayStation 1 back in the 90’s, I was instantly captivated by the stories and worlds of video games.&quot; This passion culminated in his recent short film inspired by Final Fantasy.</p>
<h2>The VFX Behind Final Fantasy VII Resurgence</h2>
<p><a href="https://youtu.be/RIlqeIDCOQw?si=UWRjz1js0Uky762c">Final Fantasy VII Resurgence</a> is an original independent short film based on the beloved characters and world of Final Fantasy VII created  by <a href="https://www.square-enix-games.com/en_US/home">Square Enix</a>. The production of Final Fantasy VII Resurgence posed a unique set of challenges for Chris, particularly given the intricate world-building and fantastical elements inherent to the franchise. Since translating the franchise into live action demanded a heavy use of VFX, Chris’s background in post-production served him well.</p>
<p><img src="https://a-us.storyblok.com/f/1002378/1280x720/84407c2ad3/final_fantasy_energy_vfx_bts.png" alt=""></p>
<blockquote>
<p>“I had to meticulously create a story, environments, characters and events that take place in the short film that could be brought to life with limited resources and budget while staying true to the source material.”</p>
</blockquote>
<p>Chris pointed to <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/products">ActionVFX's assets</a> as crucial in overcoming these hurdles, enabling the realization of complex VFX with a high degree of authenticity and cinematic realism. Specifically, Chris highlighted how the realism of ActionVFX assets alongside a customer-oriented UI facilitated the post-production process. Additionally, they allowed for meticulous <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/how-to-make-your-vfx-look-incredible-with-pre-vis?locale=en">pre-visualization during pre-production</a>, significantly economizing both time and resources.</p>
<p>For instance, using several <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/fire/category">ActionVFX fire collections</a> allowed Chris to create a realistic inferno scene:</p>
<p><img src="https://a-us.storyblok.com/f/1002378/1280x720/ab6fba29b4/final_fantasy_inferno_vfx_bts.png" alt=""></p>
<p>Watch Chris's breakdown of this inferno shot:</p>
<p><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/HAX_C2-7wjA" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></p>
<p>In another scene, Chris used ActionVFX <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/burn-mark-textures-vol-2-stock-footage">Scorch Marks</a>, <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/ground-cracks-stock-footage">Ground Cracks</a>, <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/energy-vortex-stock-footage">Energy Vortexes</a>, and <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/spark-bursts-stock-footage">Spark Bursts</a>:</p>
<p><img src="https://a-us.storyblok.com/f/1002378/1280x720/9fabb1cbe7/final_fantasy_energy_vfx_bts2.png" alt=""></p>
<p>This full VFX breakdown of the short film highlights several more ActionVFX collections:</p>
<p><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/QQeRKHvM1Ys" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></p>
<h2>VFX for Filmmakers</h2>
<p>For filmmakers like Chris Connor, VFX is not just an enhancement but the <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/using-vfx-to-tell-a-story-the-importance-of-visual-aides">backbone of storytelling</a>. It enables the visualization of fantastical elements and immersive worlds that would otherwise be impossible to realize.</p>
<p>When asked about the innovative applications of VFX in his projects, Chris emphasized the transformative power of VFX for filmmakers. &quot;VFX is one of the filmmaking tools that can visually differentiate one’s work from others... ActionVFX assets enabled me to bring various aspects of Final Fantasy VII to live action under unique scenarios,&quot; he stated.</p>
<p>Watch the full short film by Chris Connor:</p>
<p><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/RIlqeIDCOQw" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></p>
<h2>Key Takeaways for Independent Filmmakers</h2>
<p>Chris Connor's insights highlight several key takeaways for filmmakers navigating the increasingly VFX-driven landscape of cinema.</p>
<h3>1. Filmmakers Should Understand VFX</h3>
<p>A foundational understanding of VFX not only enriches the storytelling process but also empowers filmmakers to envision and execute narratives that push creative boundaries. Connor’s experience underscores the value of pre-visualization and the <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/before-you-slate-and-record-7-pre-production-tips">strategic use of assets in pre-production</a> to streamline workflows and ensure authenticity to the source material.</p>
<p>Here are some resources on <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/a-free-beginner-s-guide-to-learning-vfx-from-home">inexpensively learning VFX</a> from home.</p>
<h3>2. VFX Allows Filmmakers to Tell More Compelling Stories</h3>
<p>Chris Connor’s work highlights a broader industry shift that is critical for filmmakers. As audiences crave more intricate and visually compelling narratives, filmmakers must increasingly rely on VFX not only to meet these expectations but to push the boundaries of what cinema can achieve.</p>
<h3>3. VFX Gives Filmmakers a Competitive Edge</h3>
<p>The use of VFX assets becomes a strategic advantage, particularly for filmmakers working within tight budget constraints. ActionVFX offers a treasure trove of <a href="https://actionvfx.com/products">high-quality, ready-to-use VFX elements</a> that can drastically enhance the visual narrative of any project.</p>
<p>The key to maximizing their potential lies in early integration during the <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/how-to-make-your-vfx-look-incredible-with-pre-vis">pre-visualization stage</a>. You should design your shots with a clear understanding of how VFX will enhance the final product. This forward-thinking approach not only ensures a seamless blend between live-action footage and digital effects but also significantly reduces post-production time and expense.</p>
<p>As Chris told us, &quot;ActionVFX enables the filmmaker to craft specific scenes in a story during the pre-production phase since they can view, choose, compose, and test a VFX shot beforehand, enabling them to have certainty in their approach to VFX scenes as well as saving a lot of time from having to worry about finding or simulating assets from scratch.&quot;</p>
<p>If you are an independent filmmaker interested in VFX, feel free to check out the variety of resources available:</p>
<p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNFBdbfWsd-BMDfo1KIEYeg">Chris Connor - YouTube</a></p>
<p><a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/practice-footage">ActionVFX Practice Footage Library</a></p>
<p><a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog?category=tutorials">ActionVFX Tutorials</a></p>
<h2>VFX Assets for Professional Filmmakers</h2>
<p>Are you curious about what makes ActionVFX assets stand out? Check out our selection of <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/free-vfx/category">free VFX elements</a> and see the difference personally! We are committed to creating production-quality assets, and this extends to our free VFX elements, so try them out!</p>
<p>If you plan to spend at least $300 on VFX assets over the next year, you should <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/pricing">consider joining AVFX+</a>. AVFX+ gives you instant access to up to $19,000+ worth of VFX assets, and up to a 40% discount off the remaining library.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/pricing"><strong>Join AVFX+</strong></a></p>
<p>Remember to connect with us on our social networks to stay updated on our latest news, giveaways, announcements, and more!</p>
<p>ActionVFX socials:
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@ActionVFXofficial">YouTube</a> - <a href="https://www.facebook.com/actionvfx/">Facebook</a> - <a href="https://www.instagram.com/actionvfxofficial/">Instagram</a> - <a href="https://twitter.com/actionvfx?lang=en">X</a> - <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@actionvfxofficial?lang=en">TikTok</a> - <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/actionvfx">Linkedin</a></p>


Learn about key VFX insights for independent filmmakers from Chris Connor's work on Final Fantasy VII Resurgence.

Final Fantasy VII Resurgence: Filmmaker Chris Connor's ActionVFX Story

<p>VFX artists have told us that ActionVFX helps bring them home to see their families. But recently, we had the opportunity to help make dreams come true. <strong><a href="https://www.imdb.com/name/nm3951039/">Chris Lofing, a talented filmmaker</a></strong> and a friend of ActionVFX, recently got engaged! But this wasn’t any ordinary proposal.</p>
<p>You might remember Chris and his team at <strong><a href="https://tremendum.com/">Tremendum Pictures</a></strong> from last year when we featured his impressive VFX reel:
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/bXcvNw8Jc2U" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></p>
<p>This time, Chris is back with something even more special. In true Chris Lofing style, he set the stage for his surprise proposal with this recreation of a scene from The Flash. Chris told us that <strong><a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/products">ActionVFX assets</a></strong> “came in clutch because I only had about three days to shoot, edit and do the VFX for this entire thing without her knowing.”</p>
<p>We’re proud to have played a very small part in making their dreams become reality. Congratulations, Chris and Andrea!
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/1duSd2Xw77E" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></p>
<p>First time hearing of ActionVFX? Put simply, we make VFX artists’ lives easier with the world’s largest library of production-quality VFX assets. Seen any blockbuster movies in the past few years? Then you’ve probably seen our assets!</p>
<p>If you are a VFX artist, feel free to <strong><a href="https://actionvfx.com/products">explore our library</a></strong> or <strong><a href="https://actionvfx.com/pricing">become a subscriber</a></strong> today!</p>
<p><strong><a href="https://www.instagram.com/chrislofing/">Follow Chris Lofing on Instagram</a></strong></p>
<p><strong>ActionVFX socials:</strong>
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@ActionVFXofficial">YouTube</a> - <a href="https://www.facebook.com/actionvfx/">Facebook</a> - <a href="https://www.instagram.com/actionvfxofficial/">Instagram</a> - <a href="https://twitter.com/actionvfx?lang=en">X</a> - <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@actionvfxofficial?lang=en">TikTok</a> - <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/actionvfx">Linkedin</a></p>


Filmmaker Chris Lofing created this VFX scene from The Flash using ActionVFX assets... and the rest is history.

Filmmaker Chris Lofing Uses ActionVFX in Heartwarming Proposal

<p>To begin, what <em>hasn't</em> Crafty Apes done in the industry? If you have never heard of this collection of over 200 artists across six territories, you have surely seen their work on the big screens or TV.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.craftyapes.com/">Crafty Apes</a> is a VFX and production studio that has serviced a large number of projects in the industry. From post-production work in <em>Stranger Things</em> and <em>Zombieland: Double Tap</em> to <em>Deadpool 2</em> and <em>The Walking Dead</em>, they have added their creative touch in many blockbuster projects.</p>
<p>This means that ActionVFX elements have, too — in over 50 projects.</p>
<p><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/8pdx3QOkUmI" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></p>
<p>We were given the chance to be able to visit the Atlanta branch of Crafty Apes to learn about all the exciting movies and shows ActionVFX is a part of.</p>
<p>Along with seeing the incredible VFX shots with our assets that hit theaters and TVs all around the world, we were able to sit down and understand just how important ActionVFX is to the workflow and culture of Crafty Apes.</p>
<p>Chris LeDoux, Founder and Senior Visual Effects Supervisor, views ActionVFX in a competitive light, where studios compete to create the best VFX sequences for their customers.</p>
<p>&quot;I probably wouldn't recommend ActionVFX to other VFX studios because I think it would give them an edge over me. So, I would prefer the competitive edge for myself.&quot; — Chris LeDoux</p>
<p><img src="https://a-us.storyblok.com/f/1002378/1080x1080/f9f649386b/chris-ledoux-actionvfx-testimonial.png" alt=""></p>
<p>Since Crafty Apes is mainly a 2D-centered compositing studio, the teams at Crafty Apes rely on VFX assets to stay on schedule with their projects. Whatever vision directors hand to them, they are able to create it with the help of <a href="https://actionvfx.com/products">ActionVFX elements</a>.</p>
<p>One of the projects that ActionVFX products are especially useful in is one of Netflix's most popular originals: <em>Stranger Things</em>. A lot of our atmospheric products were used to set the scene. A couple being our <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/smoke/category">Fog</a> and <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/debris-impact/category">Dust</a> Elements.</p>
<p><img src="https://a-us.storyblok.com/f/1002378/1920x1080/c1ab550c8d/actionvfx-stranger-things-crafty-apes.png" alt=""></p>
<p>On the 20th Century Fox film Stuber, Crafty Apes was in charge of mixing in muzzle flash elements with practical muzzle flashes. ActionVFX <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/muzzle-flashes-vol-2-stock-footage">Muzzle Flashes</a> are real flashes that are filmed at various angles, providing compositors with what they need. It makes sense that our Muzzle flashes were the choice to pair with practical effects.</p>
<p>&quot;While they tried to use as many practical muzzle flashes as they can, directors always want more. So we're able to take elements from the ActionVFX library, supplement those in, and they drop right in with the real stuff.&quot; — Sean Thigpen, VFX Supervisor</p>
<p>ActionVFX products being available to the Crafty Apes team holds importance for reasons outside of the office, as well.</p>
<p>&quot;ActionVFX gets me home to see my family. It's easy to go through and the effects are above and beyond the rest. There is no comparison to what I've found out there previously.&quot;  — Bryan Haines, VFX Compositor</p>
<p><img src="https://a-us.storyblok.com/f/1002378/1080x1080/da4c2c9b17/brian-haines-crafty-apes-actionvfx-testimonial.png" alt=""></p>
<p>With Crafty Apes expanding rapidly, they need to be able to rely on elements that will keep their business and projects thriving. ActionVFX products bring an increase in efficiency that saves Crafty Apes tens of thousands of dollars.</p>
<p>After our visit with the team of Crafty Apes, there is one revelation that Crafty Apes wants the world of visual effects to know.</p>
<p>&quot;If you're not using ActionVFX, you're just doing it wrong. It helps us out in every single project, almost every single day. It's hard to find a very specific time where it's really saved us or shined, because it shines constantly.&quot; — Bryan Haines, VFX Compositor</p>
<p>Be on the lookout for Crafty Apes and ActionVFX elements, you may be binge-watching their incredible work with our products and expertise without knowing it!</p>
<p>Thank you to Crafty Apes for letting us visit the office and spend time with you finding out how ActionVFX products are used in your pipeline.</p>
<p>First time here? ActionVFX creates the best visual effects stock footage for VFX artists and filmmakers. (We also have some great <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/free-vfx/category">free stuff</a>!)</p>
<p>From Fire and massive Explosions to Blood and Gore VFX, we have the largest VFX library in the world ready to be composited in your project. <strong><a href="https://actionvfx.com/products">Check out over 11,000 VFX stock footage elements.</a></strong></p>
<p>Remember to connect with us on our social networks to stay updated on our latest news, giveaways, announcements, and more!</p>
<p><strong>ActionVFX socials:</strong>
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@ActionVFXofficial">YouTube</a> - <a href="https://www.facebook.com/actionvfx/">Facebook</a> - <a href="https://www.instagram.com/actionvfxofficial/">Instagram</a> - <a href="https://twitter.com/actionvfx?lang=en">X</a> - <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@actionvfxofficial?lang=en">TikTok</a> - <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/actionvfx">Linkedin</a></p>


How Crafty Apes uses ActionVFX assets for projects like Stranger Things and The Walking Dead.

How Crafty Apes VFX Studio Uses ActionVFX Stock Footage

<div>The Star Wars franchise had a massive impact on the VFX industry. George Lucas and ILM pushed the limits of practical and visual effects, creating a sci-fi universe with one of the world’s largest fan bases.</div>
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  <iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/jAtULl3ExUo" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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<div>We’re always thrilled to see how VFX artists use our assets, and today we’re excited to highlight FilmRiot’s recreation of Star Wars VFX using miniatures and the <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/sci-fi-planets-stock-footage"><strong>ActionVFX Sci-Fi Planets collection</strong></a>.<br><br>Watch FilmRiot's full Star Wars VFX breakdown:</div>
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  <iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/8i7Cx4LRQSg" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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<h2><strong>How to Composite Star Wars Planet VFX</strong></h2>
<div>Here is a brief step-by-step summary of how FilmRiot composited this shot in <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog?category=after-effects"><strong>After Effects</strong></a> after filming the miniatures.</div>
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<h3><strong>1. Green Screen Keying in After Effects:</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li>Begin by importing the footage into After Effects.</li>
<li>Utilize the "Keylight" effect to effectively <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/5-green-screen-keying-tips-actionvfx-quick-tips"><strong>remove the green background</strong></a>. Ensure the subject is distinct, devoid of any green remnants.</li>
</ul>
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<h3><strong>2. Adjusting Color and Contrast:</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li>Implement the "Curves" effect on your footage to enhance brightness and detail.</li>
<li>If there are discrepancies in color balance, the "Tint" effect can be used to achieve the desired harmony.</li>
</ul>
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<h3><strong>3. Incorporating ActionVFX's Sci-Fi Planets Pack:</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li>Integrate the desired planet assets from our <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/sci-fi-planets-stock-footage"><strong>Sci-Fi Planets pack</strong></a> into the shot.</li>
<li>Strategically position these celestial elements in the background to establish depth and context.</li>
<li>Apply color correction tools, such as "Curves" or "Hue/Saturation," to ensure the planets align with the scene's ambiance.</li>
</ul>
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<h3><strong>4. Camera Movement and Stabilization:</strong></h3>
<ul><li>Introduce subtle <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/tutorial-creating-realistic-camera-shake-in-adobe-after-effects"><strong>camera movement</strong></a> to add depth and dimension to the shot.</li></ul>
<div>Use tools like Red Giant Universe's “Camera Shake" to simulate realistic camera movement, adjusting settings for optimal results.</div>
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  <iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/cVlnh6Hx8T8" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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<h3><strong>5. Finalizing the Composition:</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li>Enhance the composition with additional effects, such as grain or glow, to achieve a cohesive visual experience.</li>
<li>It's imperative to preview the final composition, ensuring all elements are harmoniously integrated.</li>
</ul>
<div>Space has always been a source of fascination and wonder. With tools like our <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/sci-fi-planets-stock-footage"><strong>Sci-Fi Planets collection</strong></a>, filmmakers can bring the cosmos to life in their projects. We love how FilmRiot used our assets, and are excited to see what other VFX artists make with them!<br><br>If you have used any ActionVFX elements in any creations, please consider sharing them with us!<br><br><a href="https://actionvfx.typeform.com/to/VMIRds0U"><strong>SHARE YOUR WORK</strong></a><strong><br></strong><br>
</div>
<h2><strong>Start Creating with ActionVFX</strong></h2>
<div>Never heard of ActionVFX? We are the world's <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/products"><strong>best and largest library of production-quality VFX assets</strong></a>. Our assets are <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/testimonials"><strong>trusted by the best VFX studios</strong></a> and used in some of the world's biggest blockbusters.<br><br><a href="https://actionvfx.com/products"><strong>Explore our library</strong></a> or get access to tens of thousands of dollars worth of assets by <a href="https://actionvfx.com/pricing"><strong>joining AVFX+</strong></a>!<br><br>Stay in touch with us on social media for the latest updates!</div>
<div>
<br>ActionVFX socials:</div>
<div>
<a href="https://forum.actionvfx.com/"><strong>Forum</strong></a><strong> - </strong><a href="https://www.youtube.com/actionvfxofficial?sub_confirmation=1"><strong>YouTube</strong></a> -<a href="https://www.facebook.com/actionvfx"> <strong>Facebook</strong></a> -<a href="https://www.instagram.com/actionvfxofficial/?hl=en"> <strong>Instagram</strong></a> -<a href="https://twitter.com/ActionVFX?lang=en"> <strong>Twitter</strong></a> -<a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@actionvfxofficial?lang=en"> <strong>TikTok</strong></a> -<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/actionvfx/"> <strong>Linkedin</strong></a>
</div>

Learn how FilmRiot recreated Star Wars VFX with the ActionVFX Sci-Fi Planets collection and a miniature.

FilmRiot: Remaking Star Wars VFX with Miniatures and ActionVFX

<div>VFX artists have told us that ActionVFX helps bring them home to see their families. But recently, we had the opportunity to help make dreams come true. <a href="https://www.imdb.com/name/nm3951039/"><strong>Chris Lofing, a talented filmmaker</strong></a> and a friend of ActionVFX, recently got engaged! But this wasn’t any ordinary proposal.</div>
<div><br></div>
<div>You might remember Chris and his team at <a href="https://tremendum.com/"><strong>Tremendum Pictures</strong></a> from last year when we featured his impressive VFX reel:</div>
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<div><div class="responsive-embed widescreen">
  <iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/bXcvNw8Jc2U" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div></div>
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<div>This time, Chris is back with something even more special. In true Chris Lofing style, he set the stage (pun intended) for his surprise proposal with this recreation of a scene from The Flash. Chris told us that <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/products"><strong>ActionVFX assets</strong></a> “came in clutch because I only had about three days to shoot, edit and do the VFX for this entire thing without her knowing.”</div>
<div><br></div>
<div>We’re proud to have played a very small part in making their dreams become reality. Congratulations, Chris and Andrea!</div>
<div><br></div>
<div><div class="responsive-embed widescreen">
  <iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/1duSd2Xw77E" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div></div>
<div><br></div>
<div>First time hearing of ActionVFX? Put simply, we make VFX artists’ lives easier with the world’s largest library of production-quality VFX assets. Seen any blockbuster movies in the past few years? Then you’ve probably seen our assets!</div>
<div><br></div>
<div>If you are a VFX artist, feel free to <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/products"><strong>explore or library</strong></a> or<a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/pricing"><strong> join AVFX+</strong></a> today!<br><br>Have you made content with ActionVFX assets? We'd love to see it!<br><br><a href="https://actionvfx.typeform.com/to/VMIRds0U">
  SUBMIT CONTENT
</a><br><br><a href="https://www.instagram.com/chrislofing/?hl=en"><strong>Follow Chris Lofing on Instagram</strong></a>
</div>
<div><br></div>
<div>ActionVFX socials:</div>
<div>
<a href="https://forum.actionvfx.com/"><strong>Forum</strong></a><strong> - </strong><a href="https://www.youtube.com/actionvfxofficial?sub_confirmation=1"><strong>YouTube</strong></a> -<a href="https://www.facebook.com/actionvfx"> <strong>Facebook</strong></a> -<a href="https://www.instagram.com/actionvfxofficial/?hl=en"> <strong>Instagram</strong></a> -<a href="https://twitter.com/ActionVFX?lang=en"> <strong>Twitter</strong></a> -<a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@actionvfxofficial?lang=en"> <strong>TikTok</strong></a> -<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/actionvfx/"> <strong>Linkedin</strong></a>
</div>

Filmmaker Chris Lofing recreated a scene from The Flash using ActionVFX assets… and the rest is history. Watch the heartwarming proposal.

<div>Ingenuity Studios is a full-service VFX studio and customer of ActionVFX. Since 2004, they have served all four of the major markets that depend on VFX: television, film, commercials, and music videos. Their work has attracted renowned clients including Marvel, Hulu, HBO, Netflix, Amazon, and more. Their long-standing client relationships are a testament to their expertise and commitment to excellence.</div>
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<div>We recently had the opportunity to interview Matthew Poliquin, the Executive Producer and VFX Supervisor at Ingenuity Studios. Matthew said that at the heart of Ingenuity Studios, their artists are problem solvers, dedicated to helping clients achieve what they couldn't on their own. ActionVFX’s <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/products"><strong>collection of stock footage</strong></a> has helped them achieve this mission. As a studio, their strengths lie in pre-visualization, offering foundational guidance, on-set visual effects supervision, CG, compositing, and everything in between.</div>
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<h3><strong>ActionVFX's Contribution to Ingenuity Studios' Library</strong></h3>
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<div>In the interview, Matthew commended the versatility of ActionVFX's assets, acknowledging their significant contribution to their own library. He emphasized how the depth of ActionVFX's collection helps them maintain variety, ensuring that not every burning doorway, for instance, utilizes the exact same element. Matthew recalled how, in the past, he could easily identify which elements were used in fire and building collapse scenes. However, by incorporating a diverse range of VFX elements, including many of ActionVFX's assets alongside their own filmed and CG elements, Ingenuity Studios maintains a high level of visual authenticity.</div>
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<blockquote>“ActionVFX elements make up a big part of our library… The depth of your asset library goes a long way in helping us keep everything fresh.”</blockquote>
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<div>Here is one of their reels showcasing several ActionVFX <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/fire/category"><strong>fire</strong></a> and <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/fire/category"><strong>explosion</strong></a> elements:</div>
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  <iframe src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/483668145?h=a496126130" width="640" height="360" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe> <p><a href="https://vimeo.com/483668145">Fire and Explosions - Ingenuity Studios 2020</a> from <a href="https://vimeo.com/ingenuitystudiosvfx">Ingenuity Studios</a> on <a href="https://vimeo.com">Vimeo</a>.</p>
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<div>They also utilized a number of ActionVFX elements in this scene from Season 10 of <em>The Walking Dead:</em>
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<div>Additionally, their breakdown from <a href="https://www.ingenuitystudios.com/the-good-lord-bird"><em>The Good Lord Bird</em></a> uses several ActionVFX elements:</div>
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<div>As Matthew told us, “It’s really hard for me to say which projects and reels <em>really</em> feature Action VFX elements as, most likely, nearly all of them do!” Incorporating ActionVFX elements into their projects has allowed Ingenuity Studios to consistently achieve stunning visual effects that seamlessly blend with their overall compositions.</div>
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<h3><strong>Crowd VFX: ActionVFX's Solution</strong></h3>
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<div>Most recently, Ingenuity Studios provided crowd replacement VFX for the show <em>Young Rock</em>. Due to time and budget constraints on the back end of the season, their own computer-generated crowds were not feasible to use. Additionally, they found that the overwhelming majority of sports crowd stock footage was great for B-roll, but unsuitable as background elements. ActionVFX’s <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/sports-crowds-vol-2-stock-footage"><strong>Sports Crowd VFX assets</strong></a> provided a solution.</div>
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<blockquote>“The pre-package sprite assets, in all their various angles, let us quickly put together custom crowds in a situation where we weren’t afforded the foresight to have production film sprite elements. The ability to quickly and easily change wardrobe colors helped us get the variety we needed, but also kept the crowd in the team colors we needed.”</blockquote>
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<div>The flexibility of the Sports Crowd collection was vital for the project. “The variety of angles and wardrobe colors… allowed us to shift the crowd to the University of Miami’s colors, and rotate/select angles that matched the individual shots,” Matthew stated.<strong> </strong>And <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/products"><strong>ActionVFX’s elements</strong></a> will continue to impact workflows for their future projects. </div>
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<blockquote>“The Crowd VFX assets are a great tool to have in our chest. It fills the gap between traditional 2D tiling and full fledged, bespoke CG crowds. It’s nice to be able to have elements for a sprite-based approach when and where we’re not able to film them.”</blockquote>
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<div>It is a privilege to help studios like <a href="https://www.ingenuitystudios.com/"><strong>Ingenuity Studios</strong></a> succeed in their mission to tell powerful stories with high-quality visuals. We’re excited to see what they create in the future!</div>
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Learn how Ingenuity Studios, a full-service VFX studio, has used ActionVFX crowd and fire VFX stock footage elements to create cost-effective, high-quality visuals.

Matthew Poliquin discusses how Ingenuity Studios uses the ActionVFX library to create cost-effective, high-quality visuals.

How ActionVFX Stock Footage Benefits Ingenuity Studios

Learn how ActionVFX takes VFX for Motion, a course combining Visual Effects and Motion Design disciplines together, to the next level using VFX stock footage.

The VFX for Motion course teaches you how to use a broad set of VFX tools, techniques, and more.

How ActionVFX Elements Help The 'VFX For Motion' Course Prepare You For The Industry

Are you a VFX artist? Do you want to be more creative in your work? In this interview, Travis Button of Hyphenate discusses how he uses innovation to overcome creative challenges in the VFX industry. Read on to learn more about Travis' work and how you can keep your creativity alive in the VFX industry.

In this interview, we're joined by Director and VFX Supervisor Travis Button to talk about how his background has helped him become the lead creative force for his company Hyphenate.

VFX Innovation as a Goal | An Interview with Hyphenate’s Travis Button

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<strong>Spoilers ahead!<br><br></strong><em>Don't Breathe 2</em>, the sequel to the widely popular first installment <em>Don't Breathe</em>, has officially hit theaters. The film was highly dependent on top-of-the-line visual effects to bring the vision of Director Rodo Sayagues to the big screen.<br><br>The audience picks up the story years after the events of <em>Don't Breathe</em>, where The Blind Man (portrayed by Stephan Lang) is now living with his young daughter, Phoenix, in solitude. When his daughter is kidnapped, he is forced to use his other highly tuned senses to find her and take revenge on the kidnappers.<br><span style="background-color: highlight;"><figure data-trix-attachment='{"content":"&lt;iframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https://www.youtube.com/embed/gRbG2tjHYCA\" title=\"YouTube video player\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture\" allowfullscreen&gt;&lt;/iframe&gt;"}' data-trix-content-type="undefined" data-trix-attributes='{"frozen":true}' class="attachment attachment--content"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/gRbG2tjHYCA" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><figcaption class="attachment__caption"></figcaption></figure></span>Here's the full VFX breakdown of the fire sequences we'll be talking about.<br><span style="background-color: highlight;"><figure data-trix-attachment='{"content":"&lt;iframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https://www.youtube.com/embed/ZmtVJDGTB18\" title=\"YouTube video player\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture\" allowfullscreen&gt;&lt;/iframe&gt;"}' data-trix-content-type="undefined" data-trix-attributes='{"frozen":true}' class="attachment attachment--content"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ZmtVJDGTB18" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><figcaption class="attachment__caption"></figcaption></figure></span>I had the honor of catching up with Founder and Creative Director James Hattin to talk about how the ActionVFX library helped VFX Legion composite intricate shots on a deadline, while exceeding the expectations of the Director and Lionsgate Entertainment.<br><br><strong>Q:</strong> <strong>You created over 100 VFX shots for </strong><strong><em>Don’t Breathe 2</em></strong><strong>. But it didn’t start off like that. You were asked to bid on 30+ effects and were awarded only a few complex shots, but eventually were granted more work due to exceeding the expectations of Lionsgate. Were you able to utilize ActionVFX elements to showcase the high-level you were able to operate at?<br></strong><br>
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<strong>James Hattin</strong>: Early on, they had a handful of “fix-it” shots, which were easy enough to do. Then they started needing help on a handful of fire shots of the main character falling through a glass ceiling and out a window. We put in ROARING fire throughout the room. It was seamless. Absolutely felt like they shot it in an inferno.<em style="background-color: highlight;"><figure data-trix-attachment="{&quot;content&quot;:&quot;&lt;div style='position:relative; padding-bottom:calc(56.25% + 44px)'&gt;&lt;iframe src='https://gfycat.com/ifr/OldPinkAmazonparrot' frameborder='0' scrolling='no' width='100%' height='100%' style='position:absolute;top:0;left:0;' allowfullscreen&gt;&lt;/iframe&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&quot;}" data-trix-content-type="undefined" data-trix-attributes='{"frozen":true,"italic":true}' class="attachment attachment--content"><div style="position:relative; padding-bottom:calc(56.25% + 44px)"><iframe src="https://gfycat.com/ifr/OldPinkAmazonparrot" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" width="100%" height="100%" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>
<figcaption class="attachment__caption"></figcaption></figure></em>From there the shot count grew exponentially as we were awarded most of the fire work in the rest of the movie.</div>
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<em><br></em><strong>Q:</strong><em> </em><strong>The production was slowed down due to the pandemic in the fall of 2020. How did you approach the shots that you were given, knowing tight deadlines were looming? Did ActionVFX elements help you reach those deadlines, while still delivering high-quality VFX shots?</strong>
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<strong>James Hattin</strong>: The timeline was always tight on this movie. The overarching question was always “can it be done by X date?” Our answer was always yes. Knowing how many shots there were that involved fire, we knew we couldn’t go down the road of simulated fire. There was just too many shots, and we knew the library at ActionVFX was large enough to give us the elements that we needed, quickly.<em style="background-color: highlight;"><figure data-trix-attachment="{&quot;content&quot;:&quot;&lt;div style='position:relative; padding-bottom:calc(56.25% + 44px)'&gt;&lt;iframe src='https://gfycat.com/ifr/IndelibleMiniatureGemsbuck' frameborder='0' scrolling='no' width='100%' height='100%' style='position:absolute;top:0;left:0;' allowfullscreen&gt;&lt;/iframe&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&quot;}" data-trix-content-type="undefined" data-trix-attributes='{"frozen":true,"italic":true}' class="attachment attachment--content"><div style="position:relative; padding-bottom:calc(56.25% + 44px)"><iframe src="https://gfycat.com/ifr/IndelibleMiniatureGemsbuck" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" width="100%" height="100%" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>
<figcaption class="attachment__caption"></figcaption></figure></em>It also allowed us to stay away from the budget of simulations. Any shot would naturally be 3 to 4 times the cost because of the back and forth, development time and hardware needs for complex Houdini caches.</div>
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<em><br></em><strong>Q: You mention creating a wide variety of effects, including compositing digital elements into the opening shot of the movie, that is well over 1500 frames long. How did ActionVFX elements speed up your workflow and maximize your efficiency in creating this shot?<br><br>James Hattin</strong>: The long shot in the movie was one of the more complex shots we’ve done as a company. A CG double of the girl was created because the director wanted to see her fall down in the opening shot of the movie.<em style="background-color: highlight;"><figure data-trix-attachment="{&quot;content&quot;:&quot;&lt;div style='position:relative; padding-bottom:calc(56.25% + 44px)'&gt;&lt;iframe src='https://gfycat.com/ifr/OblongTangibleGreyhounddog' frameborder='0' scrolling='no' width='100%' height='100%' style='position:absolute;top:0;left:0;' allowfullscreen&gt;&lt;/iframe&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&quot;}" data-trix-content-type="undefined" data-trix-attributes='{"frozen":true,"italic":true}' class="attachment attachment--content"><div style="position:relative; padding-bottom:calc(56.25% + 44px)"><iframe src="https://gfycat.com/ifr/OblongTangibleGreyhounddog" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" width="100%" height="100%" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>
<figcaption class="attachment__caption"></figcaption></figure></em>Much of the fire of the burning house came from another vendor who was originally assigned the task of this shot until it became too complex. There were a couple of fire beats that we needed to hit that weren’t in their work. As we fly over we needed more smoke and bursts of fire and embers into the air. That’s where ActionVFX came in. It took one pass to find the right elements and put those beats in there. The director bought off immediately.<em style="background-color: highlight;"><figure data-trix-attachment="{&quot;content&quot;:&quot;&lt;div style='position:relative; padding-bottom:calc(56.25% + 44px)'&gt;&lt;iframe src='https://gfycat.com/ifr/ClumsyFlawedBlueandgoldmackaw' frameborder='0' scrolling='no' width='100%' height='100%' style='position:absolute;top:0;left:0;' allowfullscreen&gt;&lt;/iframe&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&quot;}" data-trix-content-type="undefined" data-trix-attributes='{"frozen":true,"italic":true}' class="attachment attachment--content"><div style="position:relative; padding-bottom:calc(56.25% + 44px)"><iframe src="https://gfycat.com/ifr/ClumsyFlawedBlueandgoldmackaw" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" width="100%" height="100%" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>
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<strong>Q:</strong> <strong>The beauty of VFX stock footage is the time and money it saves in post-production. How did our vast VFX library, particularly our fire, help you achieve nearly 40 sequences that needed realistic fire VFX?</strong><strong><em><br></em></strong><br>
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<strong>James Hattin</strong>: Each artist has access to the library so that they can look for the right elements to fit their needs. This is a much more streamlined process than a supervisor looking through a collection of fire and suggesting the right piece. Of course, we have very talented artists that are exceptional at matching the correct scale and speed of the elements in the scenes. This ability for each artist to select the right footage speeds up the process immensely.</div>
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<strong>Q:</strong> <strong>Would you recommend ActionVFX elements to other VFX artists? We love the fact that the same high-quality VFX elements from our library that are used in Hollywood productions (your work on </strong><strong><em>Don’t Breathe 2</em></strong><strong> is a shining example) are available to everyone, and now cheaper than ever before with our subscription.</strong>
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<strong>James Hattin</strong>: We would always recommend ActionVFX for fire, smoke, rain and magic effects. There hasn’t been a really solid fire collection since the early 2000’s, so it’s nice to have some really well thought out and well shot elements. Also most of them come in 4K, so gone are the days of having to scale up video elements for feature films or 4K streaming. We’ve been working with ActionVFX for years now and their collection just keeps getting better and better.</div>
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<div>Hattin ended the interview by saying what's at the very heart of what the team at ActionVFX strive to achieve everyday.<br><br>
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<div>"ActionVFX has opened up a lot of opportunities for us to pitch to clients. This material works at all levels from beginner and hobbyist to Hollywood blockbuster and everything in between. Having access to it has been a great tool to showcase what is possible with these elements."</div>
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<div>I want to extend a special thanks to Hattin for taking the time to tell and show us what ActionVFX did for the production of <em>Don't Breathe 2</em>, as well as the entire VFX Legion team for their incredible work!<br><br>This isn't the first time VFX Legion and ActionVFX have paired up. Check out how VFX Legion utilized our elements in the horror movie <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/actionvfx-elements-enter-the-horror-genre-ma-movie"><strong><em>Ma</em></strong></a>,<em> </em>ABC's<em> </em><a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/actionvfx-interview-with-vfx-legion-artist-kyle-spiker"><strong><em>How to Get Away with Murder</em></strong></a>,<em> and </em><a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/vfx-legion-how-actionvfx-stock-footage-benefit-this-vfx-studio"><strong><em>Superfly</em></strong></a>!<br><br>Our <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/pricing"><strong>new subscription model</strong></a> brings unlimited access to our library that VFX Legion and so many other studios and individuals (from hobbyists to professionals) take advantage of. And you can utilize the same elements seen in <em>Don't Breathe 2</em> for <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/pricing"><strong>a low $14.99 price</strong></a>. Check out what other major productions use our elements below!<br><span style="background-color: highlight;"><figure data-trix-attachment="{&quot;content&quot;:&quot;&lt;div style='position:relative; padding-bottom:calc(56.25% + 44px)'&gt;&lt;iframe src='https://gfycat.com/ifr/HastyThornyBorzoi' frameborder='0' scrolling='no' width='100%' height='100%' style='position:absolute;top:0;left:0;' allowfullscreen&gt;&lt;/iframe&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&quot;}" data-trix-content-type="undefined" data-trix-attributes='{"frozen":true}' class="attachment attachment--content"><div style="position:relative; padding-bottom:calc(56.25% + 44px)"><iframe src="https://gfycat.com/ifr/HastyThornyBorzoi" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" width="100%" height="100%" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>
<figcaption class="attachment__caption"></figcaption></figure></span>There are 12 different plans, and based on the number of VFX elements and resolutions that you need, there are plenty of options that will best suit your needs.<br><br>Click below to view all of our plans!<br><br><a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/pricing"><strong>VIEW SUBSCRIPTION PLANS</strong></a><strong><br><br></strong>We encourage you to head to the new <a href="https://forum.actionvfx.com/"><strong>ActionVFX Forum</strong></a> to interact with other VFX artists to talk about the VFX in <em>Don't Breathe 2</em>, form a community with others, share your work, and so much more.<strong><br><br></strong>Remember to connect with us on our social networks to stay updated on our latest news, giveaways, announcements, and more!<br><br>ActionVFX socials:<br><a href="https://forum.actionvfx.com/"><strong>Forum</strong></a><strong> </strong>-<strong> </strong><a href="https://www.youtube.com/c/ActionVFXofficial"><strong>YouTube</strong></a> - <a href="https://www.facebook.com/actionvfx"><strong>Facebook</strong></a> - <a href="https://www.instagram.com/actionvfxofficial/?hl=en"><strong>Instagram</strong></a> - <a href="https://twitter.com/ActionVFX?lang=en"><strong>Twitter</strong></a> - <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@actionvfxofficial?lang=en"><strong>TikTok</strong></a> - <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/actionvfx/"><strong>LinkedIn</strong></a>
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See how ActionVFX fire stock footage ignited an inferno of nearly 40 VFX sequences for studio VFX Legion's work on Don't Breathe 2, despite the pandemic, tight deadlines, and more.

Our library enabled studio VFX Legion to produce nearly 40 VFX sequences, despite the pandemic, tight deadlines, and more.

How ActionVFX Fire Elements Ignited The Visual Effects Of 'Don't Breathe 2'

<div>If you are a fan of Marvel's fictional character dubbed <em>The Punisher</em>, you know you're in for a crime-fighting good time. And with it, fans expect astounding visuals, violence, and brutal engagements between the Punisher and criminals.<br><br>VFX Producer Christopher Clements, also known as FXitinPost and the VFX wizard behind the viral sensation <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/actionvfx-joins-the-galaxy-far-far-away"><strong>Star Wars</strong><strong><em> </em></strong><strong>SC 38 Reimagined</strong></a>, and Director and Hollywood Stunt Coordinator Eric Linden give you just that.<br><br>You can feel the Punisher's rage and brutality on screen, which is perfectly aligned with Marvel's vigilante character. Watch it below! ActionVFX assets are on full display!<br><span style="background-color: highlight;"><figure data-trix-attachment='{"content":"&lt;iframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https://www.youtube.com/embed/KsHHP90dJlE\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture\" allowfullscreen&gt;&lt;/iframe&gt;"}' data-trix-content-type="undefined" data-trix-attributes='{"frozen":true}' class="attachment attachment--content"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/KsHHP90dJlE" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><figcaption class="attachment__caption"></figcaption></figure></span>Find yourself naturally swinging and fighting alongside Punisher? Us too!<br><br>I had the honor of catching up with Clements and Linden! We talked about everything, from the initial vision and how the film was almost shelved to only how ActionVFX elements can pull off the ferocity of the Punisher.<br><br>Linden, a stuntman for 15 years, got started by doubling Chris O'Donnell, and progressed through his career and landed on the Daredevil show on Netflix.<br><br>
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<blockquote>"I started doubling Jon Bernthal as the Punisher on <em>Daredevil</em> season two. That went great, and I ended up rolling into being his stunt double in <em>The</em> <em>Punisher</em> season one."</blockquote>
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<figure data-trix-attachment="{&quot;content&quot;:&quot;&lt;span class='trix-attachment-spina-image' data-label='✍️ Eric and Jon Bernthal'&gt; &lt;img src='https://cms.actionvfx.com/rails/active_storage/blobs/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsibWVzc2FnZSI6IkJBaHBBbFVHIiwiZXhwIjpudWxsLCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--8ee7f4cdd8d3e54a1118e7b417fec49824dfb187/Eric%20and%20Jon.jpg' alt='Eric and Jon Bernthal' /&gt; &lt;/span&gt;&quot;}" data-trix-content-type="undefined" class="attachment attachment--content"><span class="trix-attachment-spina-image" data-label="✍️ Eric and Jon Bernthal"> <img src="https://cms.actionvfx.com/rails/active_storage/blobs/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsibWVzc2FnZSI6IkJBaHBBbFVHIiwiZXhwIjpudWxsLCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--8ee7f4cdd8d3e54a1118e7b417fec49824dfb187/Eric%20and%20Jon.jpg" alt="Eric and Jon Bernthal"> </span><figcaption class="attachment__caption"></figcaption></figure>From there, relying on his successful career thus far and the experiences therein, Linden transitioned into the role of Stunt Coordinator in <em>The</em> <em>Punisher</em> season two. During this shift, <em>Skull: Punisher Reawakened</em> was born.<br><br>
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<blockquote>"In this transition period, I decided to show them that I was able to do this type of work. So I kind of concepted and came up with the Skull short."</blockquote>
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<br>Linden wanted to direct the short so that he could prove to the producers of <em>The</em> <em>Punisher </em>what he was capable of. Really, this short film was never designed to hit YouTube.<br><br>For some of the commenters on the video, one common theme was "it wasn't long enough!" Now you know why. It was built to be a small taste of how Linden could be a tremendous asset to the production he applied for.<br><br>To his surprise, he had an interview and was brought on as the official Stunt Coordinator before he could film the short! As you know, he still directed and produced it. The rest is history!<br><br>
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<blockquote>So we just went on with it! I was going to start the job in a month or two, and was like, 'let's go ahead and film this thing.'"</blockquote>
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<br>They were able to film and completely wrap production. After doing edits here and there on the VFX and being unhappy with it, with most of his time taken up by his newfound Stunt Coordinator job, the short was shelved for a length of time.<br><br>Once the pandemic started, Linden was speaking to Clements about redoing the edits once and for all. From the VFX to the sound design, the complete overhaul was going to happen.<br><br>It was so long ago in fact, that the character's outfit seems very similar to techniques to stop the spread of COVID, something we didn't see coming.<br><br>
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<blockquote>"It had been like three years total since I actually filmed that thing, and everybody says 'look at him, he's social distancing and he's wearing a mask'. I actually wore that mask so long ago because I wanted him to look more like an outlaw, or just look more menacing."</blockquote>
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<figure data-trix-attachment="{&quot;content&quot;:&quot;&lt;span class='trix-attachment-spina-image' data-label='✍️ The Punisher wearing his outfit.'&gt; &lt;img src='https://cms.actionvfx.com/rails/active_storage/blobs/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsibWVzc2FnZSI6IkJBaHBBbGNHIiwiZXhwIjpudWxsLCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--74027e2e390f15111b91f10d1f7639bbd76b9e47/Punisher%20Mask_2.jpg' alt='The Punisher wearing his outfit.' /&gt; &lt;/span&gt;&quot;}" data-trix-content-type="undefined" class="attachment attachment--content"><span class="trix-attachment-spina-image" data-label="✍️ The Punisher wearing his outfit."> <img src="https://cms.actionvfx.com/rails/active_storage/blobs/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsibWVzc2FnZSI6IkJBaHBBbGNHIiwiZXhwIjpudWxsLCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--74027e2e390f15111b91f10d1f7639bbd76b9e47/Punisher%20Mask_2.jpg" alt="The Punisher wearing his outfit."> </span><figcaption class="attachment__caption"></figcaption></figure>At this point in time, the short film began to evolve into what you just watched. Clements reached out to ActionVFX for VFX stock footage to properly showcase what the Punisher was made of.<br><br>This isn't the first time we have collaborated with Clements, as you may remember his incredible VFX work on <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/actionvfx-joins-the-galaxy-far-far-away"><strong>Star Wars SC 38 Reimagined</strong></a> with Darth Vader and Luke Skywalker.<br><br>Clements used a variety of assets to bring the blood and gore of the action shots to life.<br><br>
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<blockquote>"I would say the Blood VFX assets were top notch. Those were the ones that took a lot of the kills that we did to the next level."</blockquote>
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<span style="background-color: highlight;"><figure data-trix-attachment="{&quot;content&quot;:&quot;&lt;div style='position:relative; padding-bottom:calc(56.25% + 44px)'&gt;&lt;iframe src='https://gfycat.com/ifr/EverlastingPlayfulChihuahua' frameborder='0' scrolling='no' width='100%' height='100%' style='position:absolute;top:0;left:0;' allowfullscreen&gt;&lt;/iframe&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&quot;}" data-trix-content-type="undefined" data-trix-attributes='{"frozen":true}' class="attachment attachment--content"><div style="position:relative; padding-bottom:calc(56.25% + 44px)"><iframe src="https://gfycat.com/ifr/EverlastingPlayfulChihuahua" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" width="100%" height="100%" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>
<figcaption class="attachment__caption"></figcaption></figure></span>There were some simulations for the VFX. In those particular sequences, Clements was able to flesh out the rest of the missing gaps that he felt the effects needed with our elements.<br><br>He actually told us to challenge you to go into the video and try to find what was a simulation and what wasn't, due to the versatility of the elements!<br><br>Clements wrapped up our conversation by talking about what makes ActionVFX such a vital part of the process in creating stunning stories.<br><br>
</div>
<blockquote>"I think one of the biggest differences between using ActionVFX stock footage and the other packs that are out there is the level of quality... It's a standard I should say that ActionVFX holds all their products to. You go in and you know what to expect. You know you are going to get something that is beautifully keyed, that you can drop into your environment."</blockquote>
<div>
<br>We look forward to the future that we have with Linden and Clements. Clements already has a teaser out for his new Star Wars reimagined scene, which will involve Cloud City. <br><br>You already know that ActionVFX will be used throughout, and it will all be covered right here for you to watch and read!<br><br>First time here? From Fire and massive Explosions to Blood and Gore VFX, we have the largest VFX library in the world ready to be composited in your project. <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/products"><strong>Check out over 3,800 VFX stock footage elements right here</strong></a>. You can also <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/free-vfx/category"><strong>download our free products</strong></a>!</div>
<div>
<br>Remember to connect with us on our social networks to stay updated on our latest news, giveaways, announcements, and more!<br><br>ActionVFX socials:<br><a href="https://www.youtube.com/c/ActionVFXofficial"><strong>YouTube</strong></a> - <a href="https://www.facebook.com/actionvfx"><strong>Facebook</strong></a> - <a href="https://www.instagram.com/actionvfxofficial/?hl=en"><strong>Instagram</strong></a> - <a href="https://twitter.com/ActionVFX?lang=en"><strong>Twitter</strong></a> - <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/actionvfx/"><strong>Linkedin</strong></a>
</div>

We caught up with Director and Hollywood Stunt Coordinator Eric Linden and VFX Producer Christopher Clements (FXitinPost) to see how ActionVFX elements brought Punisher to life.

You'll learn how this viral short almost never made it to the public eye, and how ActionVFX elements took the VFX to a new brutal level.

How ActionVFX Stock Footage Brought Skull: Punisher Reawakened Back To Life

<div>To begin, what <em>hasn't</em> Crafty Apes done in the industry? If you have never heard of this collection of over 200 artists across six territories, you have surely seen their work on the big screens or TV.<br><br><a href="http://www.craftyapes.com/"><strong>Crafty Apes</strong></a> is a VFX and production studio that has serviced a large number of projects in the industry. From post-production work in <em>Stranger Things</em> and <em>Zombieland: Double Tap</em> to <em>Deadpool 2 </em>and <em>The Walking Dead</em>, they have added their creative touch in many blockbuster projects.<br><br>This means that ActionVFX elements have, too — in over 50 projects. <figure data-trix-attachment='{"content":"&lt;iframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https://www.youtube.com/embed/8pdx3QOkUmI\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture\" allowfullscreen&gt;&lt;/iframe&gt;"}' data-trix-content-type="undefined" class="attachment attachment--content"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/8pdx3QOkUmI" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><figcaption class="attachment__caption"></figcaption></figure>We were given the chance to be able to visit the Atlanta branch of Crafty Apes to learn about all the exciting movies and shows ActionVFX is a part of. <br><br>Along with seeing the incredible VFX shots with our assets that hit theaters and TVs all around the world, we were able to sit down and understand just how important ActionVFX is to the workflow and culture of Crafty Apes.<figure data-trix-attachment="{&quot;content&quot;:&quot;&lt;div style='position:relative; padding-bottom:calc(56.25% + 44px)'&gt;&lt;iframe src='https://gfycat.com/ifr/ChillyPalatableCowrie' frameborder='0' scrolling='no' width='100%' height='100%' style='position:absolute;top:0;left:0;' allowfullscreen&gt;&lt;/iframe&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&quot;}" data-trix-content-type="undefined" class="attachment attachment--content"><div style="position:relative; padding-bottom:calc(56.25% + 44px)"><iframe src="https://gfycat.com/ifr/ChillyPalatableCowrie" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" width="100%" height="100%" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>
<figcaption class="attachment__caption"></figcaption></figure>Chris LeDoux, Founder and Senior Visual Effects Supervisor, views ActionVFX in a competitive light, where studios compete to create the best VFX sequences for their customers. <br><br>
</div>
<blockquote>"I probably wouldn't recommend ActionVFX to other VFX studios because I think it would give them an edge over me. So, I would prefer the competitive edge for myself." — Chris LeDoux </blockquote>
<div>
<br>Since Crafty Apes is mainly a 2D-centered compositing studio, the teams at Crafty Apes rely on VFX assets to stay on schedule with their projects. Whatever vision directors hand to them, they are able to create it with the help of <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/products"><strong>ActionVFX elements</strong></a>. <figure data-trix-attachment="{&quot;content&quot;:&quot;&lt;div style='position:relative; padding-bottom:calc(56.25% + 44px)'&gt;&lt;iframe src='https://gfycat.com/ifr/PoisedHarmlessHoverfly' frameborder='0' scrolling='no' width='100%' height='100%' style='position:absolute;top:0;left:0;' allowfullscreen&gt;&lt;/iframe&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&quot;}" data-trix-content-type="undefined" class="attachment attachment--content"><div style="position:relative; padding-bottom:calc(56.25% + 44px)"><iframe src="https://gfycat.com/ifr/PoisedHarmlessHoverfly" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" width="100%" height="100%" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>
<figcaption class="attachment__caption"></figcaption></figure>One of the projects that ActionVFX products are especially useful in is one of Netflix's most popular originals: <em>Stranger Things</em>. A lot of our atmospheric products were used to set the scene. A couple being our <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/smoke/category"><strong>Fog</strong></a> and <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/debris-impact/category"><strong>Dust</strong></a> Elements. <figure data-trix-attachment="{&quot;content&quot;:&quot;&lt;div style='position:relative; padding-bottom:calc(56.25% + 44px)'&gt;&lt;iframe src='https://gfycat.com/ifr/YoungHealthyFlies' frameborder='0' scrolling='no' width='100%' height='100%' style='position:absolute;top:0;left:0;' allowfullscreen&gt;&lt;/iframe&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&quot;}" data-trix-content-type="undefined" class="attachment attachment--content"><div style="position:relative; padding-bottom:calc(56.25% + 44px)"><iframe src="https://gfycat.com/ifr/YoungHealthyFlies" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" width="100%" height="100%" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>
<figcaption class="attachment__caption"></figcaption></figure>On the 20th Century Fox film <em>Stuber</em>, Crafty Apes was in charge of mixing in muzzle flash elements with practical muzzle flashes. ActionVFX <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/muzzle-flashes-vol-2-stock-footage"><strong>Muzzle Flashes</strong></a><strong> </strong>are real flashes that are filmed at various angles, providing compositors with what they need. It makes sense that our Muzzle flashes were the choice to pair with practical effects.<br><br>
</div>
<blockquote>"While they tried to use as many practical muzzle flashes as they can, directors always want more. So we're able to take elements from the ActionVFX library, supplement those in, and they drop right in with the real stuff." — Sean Thigpen, VFX Supervisor</blockquote>
<div>
<figure data-trix-attachment="{&quot;content&quot;:&quot;&lt;div style='position:relative; padding-bottom:calc(56.25% + 44px)'&gt;&lt;iframe src='https://gfycat.com/ifr/KindheartedAppropriateAsianlion' frameborder='0' scrolling='no' width='100%' height='100%' style='position:absolute;top:0;left:0;' allowfullscreen&gt;&lt;/iframe&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&quot;}" data-trix-content-type="undefined" class="attachment attachment--content"><div style="position:relative; padding-bottom:calc(56.25% + 44px)"><iframe src="https://gfycat.com/ifr/KindheartedAppropriateAsianlion" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" width="100%" height="100%" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>
<figcaption class="attachment__caption"></figcaption></figure>ActionVFX products being available to the Crafty Apes team holds importance for reasons outside of the office, as well. </div>
<div><br></div>
<blockquote>"ActionVFX gets me home to see my family. It's easy to go through and the effects are above and beyond the rest. There is no comparison to what I've found out there previously."  — Bryan Haines, VFX Compositor</blockquote>
<div>
<br>With Crafty Apes expanding rapidly, they need to be able to rely on elements that will keep their business and projects thriving. ActionVFX products bring an increase in efficiency that saves Crafty Apes tens of thousands of dollars.<br><br>After our visit with the team of Crafty Apes, there is one revelation that Crafty Apes wants the world of visual effects to know.<br><br>
</div>
<blockquote>If you're not using ActionVFX, you're just doing it wrong. It helps us out in every single project, almost every single day. It's hard to find a very specific time where it's really saved us or shined, because it shines constantly." — Bryan Haines, VFX Compositor</blockquote>
<div>
<figure data-trix-attachment="{&quot;content&quot;:&quot;&lt;div style='position:relative; padding-bottom:calc(56.25% + 44px)'&gt;&lt;iframe src='https://gfycat.com/ifr/GlumHospitableCrossbill' frameborder='0' scrolling='no' width='100%' height='100%' style='position:absolute;top:0;left:0;' allowfullscreen&gt;&lt;/iframe&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&quot;}" data-trix-content-type="undefined" class="attachment attachment--content"><div style="position:relative; padding-bottom:calc(56.25% + 44px)"><iframe src="https://gfycat.com/ifr/GlumHospitableCrossbill" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" width="100%" height="100%" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>
<figcaption class="attachment__caption"></figcaption></figure>Be on the lookout for Crafty Apes and ActionVFX elements, you may be binge-watching their incredible work with our products and expertise without knowing it!</div>
<div>
<br>Thank you to Crafty Apes for letting us visit the office and spend time with you finding out how ActionVFX products are used in your pipeline. </div>
<div>
<br>Want to see more customer projects? <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog?category=customer-projects"><strong>Click here</strong></a> to see the complete list. <br><br>First time here? ActionVFX creates the best pre-keyed stock footage for VFX and filmmaking. (We also have some great <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/free-vfx/category"><strong>free stuff</strong></a>!)</div>
<div>
<br>From Fire and massive Explosions to Blood and Gore VFX, we have the largest VFX library in the world ready to be composited in your project. <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/products"><strong>Check out over 3,300 VFX stock footage elements right here</strong></a>. </div>
<div>
<br>Remember to connect with us on our social networks to stay updated on our latest news, giveaways, announcements, and more!<br><br><a href="https://www.youtube.com/c/ActionVFXofficial"><strong>YouTube</strong></a> - <a href="https://www.facebook.com/actionvfx"><strong>Facebook</strong></a> - <a href="https://www.instagram.com/actionvfxofficial/?hl=en"><strong>Instagram</strong></a> - <a href="https://twitter.com/ActionVFX?lang=en"><strong>Twitter</strong></a> - <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/actionvfx/"><strong>Linkedin</strong></a>
</div>

Learn how Crafty Apes, a visual effects and production studio, uses the ActionVFX library to gain a competitive edge and produce Hollywood VFX.

Crafty Apes use ActionVFX assets to elevate their workflow and compositing amidst Hollywood projects. 

Customer Project: How Crafty Apes VFX Studio Uses ActionVFX Stock Footage

<h2><strong>The Viral Reimagining</strong></h2>
<div>
<a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/products"><strong>ActionVFX Assets</strong></a> were used a long time ago in a galaxy far, far away! The increasingly popular YouTube channel <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCnHn3SzWLLimBjA79vDNTgQ"><strong>FXitinPost</strong></a><strong> </strong>released the much anticipated unofficial short scene "Star Wars SC 38 Reimagined". This reimagined scene involves the final confrontation between Darth Vader and Obi-Wan Kenobi in <em>Star Wars: Episode IV A New Hope</em>.<br><br>If you have not watched this brilliant and imaginative retelling of the scene yet, you're doing yourself a disservice! The video has 8 million views and has gone viral all over social media and the web.<br><br>Watch it below! Can you spot our products?<figure class="attachment attachment--content" data-trix-attachment='{"content":"&lt;iframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https://www.youtube.com/embed/to2SMng4u1k\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture\" allowfullscreen&gt;&lt;/iframe&gt;"}' data-trix-content-type="undefined"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/to2SMng4u1k" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><figcaption class="attachment__caption"></figcaption></figure>While you're at it, let us give you what you came here for. Check out the VFX breakdown of this powerful reimagining.<figure class="attachment attachment--content" data-trix-attachment='{"content":"&lt;iframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https://www.youtube.com/embed/S8mfcS4vci4\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture\" allowfullscreen&gt;&lt;/iframe&gt;"}' data-trix-content-type="undefined"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/S8mfcS4vci4" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><figcaption class="attachment__caption"></figcaption></figure>
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<h2><strong>Scene 38 Is Born</strong></h2>
<div>We were able to catch up with Chris Clements, VFX Producer at FXitinPost, to take a peek behind the scenes of the making of SC 38.<br><br>While talking with Chris, we found out that this isn't his first <em>Star Wars</em> rodeo. <br><br>
</div>
<blockquote>"Funny enough, my interest in VFX actually began when I decided I wanted to create a <em>Star Wars</em> fan film for the LucasFilm Star Wars Fan Film competition in 2009."<br><br>
</blockquote>
<div>After years of playing around with the ideas of lightsabers and force lightning and posting them on YouTube, someone asked him to help out with some more <em>Star Wars</em> VFX. At first, Chris was reluctant to join.<br><br>
</div>
<blockquote> "I was a bit over lightsabers at that point, so I gave a few tips and left it at that. A few days later, the same guy hit me up again saying he really needed help. I happened to have a little bit of free time that day, so I said sure I’d help out."<br><br>
</blockquote>
<div>Once Chris jumped aboard to help the person that reached out to him, he was surprised with what happened next!<br><br>
</div>
<blockquote> "I found out that it was a PreVis for stunt choreography for the new <em>Star Wars</em> Trilogy. I knew it was a huge opportunity, so I worked my butt off for two weeks and got all of the VFX done. My career took off from that project."</blockquote>
<div><figure class="attachment attachment--content" data-trix-attachment="{&quot;content&quot;:&quot;&lt;div style='position:relative; padding-bottom:calc(56.25% + 44px)'&gt;&lt;iframe src='https://gfycat.com/ifr/GentleRightHarrierhawk' frameborder='0' scrolling='no' width='100%' height='100%' style='position:absolute;top:0;left:0;' allowfullscreen&gt;&lt;/iframe&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&quot;}" data-trix-content-type="undefined"><div style="position:relative; padding-bottom:calc(56.25% + 44px)"><iframe src="https://gfycat.com/ifr/GentleRightHarrierhawk" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" width="100%" height="100%" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>
<figcaption class="attachment__caption"></figcaption></figure></div>
<div>In January of 2017, Director <a href="https://www.imdb.com/name/nm2856661/"><strong>Philip Silvera</strong></a> (who is also prominent in the stunt industry) asked if he would be interested in doing a <em>Star Wars</em> short film. Thus, Scene 38 was born. What made Scene 38 so popular? It was the pure anger you see Darth Vader fight with. Anger that you see at the end of <em>Rogue One</em>, and that's what they successfully displayed.<br><br>As you can tell in the GIF below, their PreVis and choreography nailed it. From the flames on Vader's suit to Kenobi turning back the clock of his old age to duel, it's a joy to watch.<figure class="attachment attachment--content" data-trix-attachment="{&quot;content&quot;:&quot;&lt;div style='position:relative; padding-bottom:calc(56.25% + 44px)'&gt;&lt;iframe src='https://gfycat.com/ifr/EqualDentalCavy' frameborder='0' scrolling='no' width='100%' height='100%' style='position:absolute;top:0;left:0;' allowfullscreen&gt;&lt;/iframe&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&quot;}" data-trix-content-type="undefined"><div style="position:relative; padding-bottom:calc(56.25% + 44px)"><iframe src="https://gfycat.com/ifr/EqualDentalCavy" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" width="100%" height="100%" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>
<figcaption class="attachment__caption"></figcaption></figure>
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<h2><strong>How ActionVFX Products Helped</strong></h2>
<div>Chris has followed our company since we posted on Reddit years ago looking for feedback on what the VFX community wanted! ActionVFX was his go-to VFX stock footage to finish the scene.<br><br>
</div>
<blockquote>"I used everything I could! I'd say the products I utilized the most were the <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/atmospheric-smoke-fog-vol-2-stock-footage"><strong>Atmosphere Smoke &amp; Fog</strong></a> and all of the <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/particles/category"><strong>Spark and Ember</strong></a> packs. It was vital for us to feel the impact of the clashes between Kenobi &amp; Vader. This may be oddly specific, but <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/spark-hits-stock-footage"><strong>Spark Hit 6</strong></a> and <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/spark-hits-stock-footage"><strong>Spark Hit 8</strong></a> were my favorite for lightsaber clashes. They have a lot of character but also fall in such a way that they can be tracked into a scene and still look natural."</blockquote>
<div><figure class="attachment attachment--content" data-trix-attachment="{&quot;content&quot;:&quot;&lt;div style='position:relative; padding-bottom:calc(56.25% + 44px)'&gt;&lt;iframe src='https://gfycat.com/ifr/DistinctPoliticalBlueshark' frameborder='0' scrolling='no' width='100%' height='100%' style='position:absolute;top:0;left:0;' allowfullscreen&gt;&lt;/iframe&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&quot;}" data-trix-content-type="undefined"><div style="position:relative; padding-bottom:calc(56.25% + 44px)"><iframe src="https://gfycat.com/ifr/DistinctPoliticalBlueshark" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" width="100%" height="100%" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>
<figcaption class="attachment__caption"></figcaption></figure></div>
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<a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/products"><strong>ActionVFX Elements</strong></a> are shot at varying resolutions to match what your scene needs. Scene 38 integrated various resolutions of VFX stock clips when needed.<br><br>
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<blockquote>"I think one of my favorite aspects in working with ActionVFX elements over other assets would be the ability to choose between the different resolutions. I tried to roll with 2K assets as much as possible, but there were times where I needed a lot of detail, and having 4K or even 6K options available was fantastic."<br><br>
</blockquote>
<div>There is a shot at the beginning of Scene 38 where we see Vader walk directly through our Atmospheric Smoke assets that wouldn't have worked if it wasn't for the optional 4K version.<figure class="attachment attachment--content" data-trix-attachment="{&quot;content&quot;:&quot;&lt;div style='position:relative; padding-bottom:calc(56.25% + 44px)'&gt;&lt;iframe src='https://gfycat.com/ifr/GreenDistantIndianelephant' frameborder='0' scrolling='no' width='100%' height='100%' style='position:absolute;top:0;left:0;' allowfullscreen&gt;&lt;/iframe&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&quot;}" data-trix-content-type="undefined"><div style="position:relative; padding-bottom:calc(56.25% + 44px)"><iframe src="https://gfycat.com/ifr/GreenDistantIndianelephant" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" width="100%" height="100%" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>
<figcaption class="attachment__caption"></figcaption></figure><em>Star Wars </em>has been a part of Chris' life since he watched it for the first time with his dad, and now being able to create and reimagine tales from the galaxy far, far away with our products is an honor.<br><br>In one final question, which was my favorite of all, was "If you could wrap up SC 38 Reimagined into five words, what would they be?"<br><br>Like a champ, he responded, "<strong>Insomnia</strong>, <strong>Coffee</strong>, <strong>Humility</strong>, <strong>Awe</strong>, and <strong>Lightsaber</strong>."<br><br>If you're interested in seeing what other customers are doing with our products, you can check them out over at the <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog?category=customer-projects"><strong>Customer Projects</strong></a> section!<br><br>First time here? ActionVFX creates action stock footage for visual effects and filmmaking. (We also have some great <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/free-vfx/category"><strong>free stuff</strong></a>!) <br><br>
</div>
<div>Remember to connect with us on our social networks to stay updated on our latest news, giveaways, announcements, and more!</div>
<div><br></div>
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It was a long time ago in a galaxy far, far away. See how ActionVFX Stock Footage was composited in the viral video "Star Wars SC 38 Reimagined"!

We go over what Scene 38 is, how it was created, and why ActionVFX was crucial to the production.

ActionVFX Joins The Galaxy Far, Far Away

<div>
<strong>Warning</strong>! There are<strong> </strong>spoilers beyond this point. <br><br><em>Ma </em>is a bone-chilling movie about a solitary woman, played by Oscar winner Octavia Spencer, who meets a group of teenagers and lets them party at her house. As the film progresses, the teenagers begin to see "Ma" has ulterior motives. <br><br>What ensues is not for the weak or squeamish. When you hear names such as <em>Blumhouse Productions </em>and<em> Universal </em>behind the reins of a horror, you're in for a thrill and a good movie. Grab your popcorn!<figure class="attachment attachment--content" data-trix-attachment='{"content":"&lt;iframe src=\"https://player.vimeo.com/video/340331525\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"autoplay; fullscreen\" allowfullscreen&gt;&lt;/iframe&gt; &lt;p&gt;&lt;a href=\"https://vimeo.com/340331525\"&gt;MA VFX Breakdown Reel (Contains Spoilers)&lt;/a&gt; from &lt;a href=\"https://vimeo.com/vfxlegion\"&gt;VFX Legion&lt;/a&gt; on &lt;a href=\"https://vimeo.com\"&gt;Vimeo&lt;/a&gt;.&lt;/p&gt;"}' data-trix-content-type="undefined"><iframe src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/340331525" width="640" height="360" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; fullscreen" allowfullscreen=""></iframe> <p><a href="https://vimeo.com/340331525">MA VFX Breakdown Reel (Contains Spoilers)</a> from <a href="https://vimeo.com/vfxlegion">VFX Legion</a> on <a href="https://vimeo.com">Vimeo</a>.</p>
<figcaption class="attachment__caption"></figcaption></figure>While the entire movie had different types of VFX involved, some VFX assets seemed oddly familiar. You guessed it! ActionVFX Elements were used by our long-time customer <a href="http://www.vfxlegion.com/"><strong>VFX Legion</strong></a>. <figure class="attachment attachment--content" data-trix-attachment="{&quot;content&quot;:&quot;&lt;div style='position:relative; padding-bottom:calc(56.25% + 44px)'&gt;&lt;iframe src='https://gfycat.com/ifr/HeartfeltFatherlyIrishdraughthorse' frameborder='0' scrolling='no' width='100%' height='100%' style='position:absolute;top:0;left:0;' allowfullscreen&gt;&lt;/iframe&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;p&gt; &lt;a href=\&quot;https://gfycat.com/heartfeltfatherlyirishdraughthorse\&quot;&gt;via Gfycat&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&quot;}" data-trix-content-type="undefined"><div style="position:relative; padding-bottom:calc(56.25% + 44px)"><iframe src="https://gfycat.com/ifr/HeartfeltFatherlyIrishdraughthorse" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" width="100%" height="100%" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>
<p> <a href="https://gfycat.com/heartfeltfatherlyirishdraughthorse">via Gfycat</a></p>
<figcaption class="attachment__caption"></figcaption></figure>VFX Legion has used our products on numerous projects in the past, but on this occasion, the <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/products"><strong>ActionVFX library</strong></a> makes a fiery entry when the audience was on the edge of their seat in the final moments of <em>Ma</em>. <br><br>
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<blockquote>"It closes the movie with a sweeping aerial shot filmed from a drone that begins at a distance and passes over the house revealing a 360-degree view of it engulfed in flames. A late addition to the production, the shot was included to ensure that the climactic ending left the audience with no doubt as to the fate of anyone still inside." <strong>James Hattin | Co-Founder &amp; Creative Director</strong>
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<br>Some of the original footage shot on set for the scene did not work, so they scrapped the drone footage and built a CG scene through their "master model builder and CG Artist" Mark Hennessy-Barrett. Some of their simulated flames on the house were not satisfactory, so they decided to go with their steadfast ActionVFX library.<br><br><a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/fire/category"><strong>ActionVFX Fire Elements</strong></a> were put to good use, allowing VFX Legion to complete the challenging shot.<br><br>
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<blockquote>"We opted to use stock footage from ActionVFX’s library. Layering the high-resolution elements into the shot provided an efficient solution, maintained the integrity of the shot, and kept us on schedule." <strong>Nate Smalley | Head of Production</strong>
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<div><figure class="attachment attachment--content" data-trix-attachment="{&quot;content&quot;:&quot;&lt;div style='position:relative; padding-bottom:calc(56.25% + 44px)'&gt;&lt;iframe src='https://gfycat.com/ifr/BreakableBackEwe' frameborder='0' scrolling='no' width='100%' height='100%' style='position:absolute;top:0;left:0;' allowfullscreen&gt;&lt;/iframe&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&quot;}" data-trix-content-type="undefined"><div style="position:relative; padding-bottom:calc(56.25% + 44px)"><iframe src="https://gfycat.com/ifr/BreakableBackEwe" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" width="100%" height="100%" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>
<figcaption class="attachment__caption"></figcaption></figure></div>
<div>Make sure to check out VFX Legion's <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/vfx-legion-how-actionvfx-stock-footage-benefit-this-vfx-studio"><strong>customer testimonial</strong></a> and see how they leverage ActionVFX products to their benefit!</div>
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<br>If you're interested in seeing what other customers are doing with our products, you can check them out over at the <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog?category=customer-projects"><strong>Customer Projects</strong></a> section!<br><br>First time here? ActionVFX creates action stock footage for visual effects and filmmaking. (We also have some great <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/free-vfx/category"><strong>free stuff</strong></a>!) <br><br>
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<div>Remember to connect with us on our social networks to stay updated on our latest news, giveaways, announcements, and more!</div>
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