Explore the fascinating world of filmmaking before the era of CGI as we uncover 19 movie moments where practical effects took center stage. Behind each unforgettable scene lies the dedication of talented professionals who worked tirelessly to bring cinematic magic to life.
From heart-pounding action sequences to breathtaking visuals, these snapshots from the past showcase the ingenuity and creativity that defined filmmaking before the digital age.
Join us on a journey through cinematic history, where each frame is a testament to the remarkable craftsmanship and imagination of the artists who made it all possible.
#1 Don’t Worry, Darling (2022)

In this particular scene from “Don’t Worry, Darling” (2022), we witness a moment captured in one of the film’s advertising posters. It features Florence Pugh’s character sharing a kiss with Harry Styles’ character.

#2 Venom: Carnage (2021).

During the filming of “Venom: Let There Be Carnage” (2021), Tom Hardy’s character faces off with the Venom figure in a dramatic confrontation scene.

#3 The Wasteland (2022)

During the production of “The Wasteland” (2022), the cast and crew can be seen holding onto sheets while filming a scene against strong wind conditions.

#4 The Valet (2022).

Director Richard Wong giving instructions to Eugenio Derbez during the filming of “The Valet” (2022).

#5 The Bubble (2022).

In “The Bubble” (2022), an actress and a dinosaur are seen dancing to TikTok choreography.

#6 Rainbow (2022)

A snapshot from the filming of director Paco de León’s “Rainbow” (2022), featuring the director in the background of the first image.

#7 Gamora in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. III.

Zoe Saldaña gearing up to portray Gamora in “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. III.”

#8 Mad God (2021)

“Mad God” (2021), an adult animated film crafted in a stop-motion style, offers a fascinating look behind the scenes. Remarkably, the production spanned 30 years, highlighting the dedication and meticulous craftsmanship involved in bringing this unique project to life.

#9 Black Bear (2022)

A snapshot captured during the filming of a scene in “Black Bear” (2022), an action-packed movie starring Liam Neeson, one of the genre’s most renowned figures.

#10 A Space Age Adventure (2022).

Discovering the behind-the-scenes process of filming the spaceship scene in “Apollo 10 1/2: A Space Age Adventure” (2022).

#11 Avatar: The Way of Water

Producer Jon Landau released a collection of images demonstrating how actress Sigourney Weaver, portraying the character Kiri in the Avatar sequels, filmed specific action sequences.

#12 Star Wars: The Phantom Menace (1999).

In the making of Star Wars: The Phantom Menace (1999), production utilized a scale model to capture the vast crowd shots.

#13 How the Dog (2022)

The production crew of Dog (2022) employed various techniques to film the scenes inside the car.

#14 The Incredible Hulk

Mark Ruffalo preparing to play the Hulk.
#15 Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore (2022)

The main cast of Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore (2022) attentively listens to director David Yates on set.

#16 Behind the scenes of Uncharted (2022)

In a behind-the-scenes glimpse of Uncharted (2022), Tom Holland can be seen taking direction from the film’s director.

#17 Top Gun: Maverick (2022).

Tom Cruise shares a laugh with the producers and director of Top Gun: Maverick (2022) in this behind-the-scenes moment.

#18 Avatar: The Way of Water

Zoe Saldana shares behind-the-scenes moments from Avatar: The Way of Water, including photos she sent to her family during filming.

#19 In the first photo, director Matt Reeves gives directions to Robert Pattinson during the filming of Batman (2022).

During the filming of Batman (2022), director Matt Reeves is seen giving directions to Robert Pattinson in the first photo.