One of the most responsible jobs in the animation industry is that of special effects supervisor. Whether working on an animated film or on the special effects for a live-action film, the supervisor’s role is above all a supervisory one.
THE TASKS OF THE SPECIAL EFFECTS SUPERVISOR
The special effects supervisor is the point of reference for the various people involved in the visual effects of a film. Whether they are working on an animated film or on the special effects of a live-action film, their role is above all one of supervision.
It’s a job of reflection
In pre-production, they take stock of the special effects that will be required. To do this, and in collaboration with the director, he or she analyses the script, considers the scenes that will require specific visual work, and proposes the solutions to be put in place: special effects, computer-generated imagery, motion capture, etc. There are many tools at his or her disposal.
The actual creation of the special effects takes place in post-production: simulating an explosion, making a superhero fly through the air, or creating a set from scratch are just some of the tasks he or she will carry out in collaboration with his or her teams.
The SFX team also takes the time to ensure that all safety precautions are taken before filming resumes on set.
Special effects have been around for over 100 years, but now they are computer-generated and have transformed film and television forever. Applications are becoming increasingly sophisticated. Without the SFX supervisor, modern cinema would not exist.
HIS EXPERTISE, HIS KNOWLEDGE
Depending on the budget, which will allow him to indulge in more or less “madness”, the special effects supervisor can rely on his cunning, his highly advanced technical skills and his boundless imagination to achieve his goals. They must also be able to manage teams, following them closely and guiding them skilfully.
Of course, he or she relies on the special effects software used in post-production, but also on shooting techniques.
Their general knowledge (art, science, technology) will help them to be as involved as possible at all levels.
Working hours may be irregular and depend on project deadlines.
CAREER AND DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES
SFX supervisors work on a wide variety of projects in animation studios, post-production companies, video game studios, computer graphics studios, etc. They may specialise in a particular type of special effects. They may specialise in a particular type of special effects.
Supervisors very often have a fixed-term contract (CDDU). However, they may also be taken on on permanent contracts with the largest special effects companies, or work on a freelance basis.
On average, a salaried FX supervisor can expect to earn more than €50,000 gross per year.
