Encyclopedia of Movie Special Effects

by Patricia D. Netzley

Overview

From the earliest stop-motion photography in 1899's Cinderella to computer-generated wizardry in the latest Star Wars movie, special effects have thrilled movie audiences for more than a century. The Encyclopedia of Movie Special Effects is a 5-star fan favorite that explains the magic behind these cinematic devices. This A-to-Z encyclopedia unveils the latest techniques and gadgetry inside a comprehensive reference work about the history of special effects. Entries on computer techniques, movie secrets, and the geniuses who have brought the magic to the big screen make this single volume a Hollywood hit. This encyclopedia lists movies that either contributed significantly to the development of special effects or were Academy Award winners, and spotlights over 120 well-known experts whose techniques, developments, and special effects houses have contributed significantly to the movie industry:

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781573561679
Publisher:	Bloomsbury Academic
Publication date:	12/30/1999
Edition description:	New Edition
Pages:	304
Product dimensions:	7.00(w) x 10.00(h) x 0.75(d)
Age Range:	11 Years

About the Author

PATRICIA D. NETZLEY is a freelance writer who has published nonfiction for children, young adults, and adults. Her publications include The Assassination of President Kennedy

he Importance of Queen Victoria

e Mysterious Death of Butch Cassidy

d Life During the Renaissance.

Table of Contents

Preface v
Topical Index vii
Encyclopedia of Movie Special Effects 1
Appendix A: Academy Award Winners and Nominees for Special Effects (1939-1998) 249
Appendix B: Special Effects Magazines 258
Appendix C: Special Effects Houses 259
Bibliography 263
Index 269

Editorial Reviews

An incredible treasury of f/x facts, this volume provides 366 entries on visual, mechanical, and makeup effects and techniques used in film and includes discussions of every movie to win an Oscar for special effects. Some attention is given to significant figures in the field, such as George Pal, but the focus is predominantly on films of the modern era, noting techniques and milestones without burdening the reader with technical jargon. Netzley, the author of several reference books, including Environmental Literature (see the review below), adds useful appendixes on Academy Award winners and nominees, special-effects houses, and specialized magazines. With illustrations, cross references, and numerous secondary bibliographies throughout, this encyclopedia has a scope and quality that no other f/x reference work approaches. It should serve as a good companion to such specialized magazines as Cinefex and Digital Magic. Highly recommended for all film collections.--Anthony J. Adam, Prairie View A&M Univ. Lib., Houston Copyright 2000 Cahners Business Information.\

Library Journal

Students, film buffs, and general readers will enjoy this book's brief biographies, definitions of studio jargon, descriptions of special effects techniques, and descriptive lists of effects used in specific films. Many entries include historical notes, and an appendix lists Academy Award winners and nominees for special effects from 1939 to 1998. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

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