Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Squibs • Stunt Padding • Safe Word Protocol

Practical Effects

Term from Stunt Coordination industry explained for recruiters

Practical Effects refers to special effects created physically on a movie or TV set, rather than with computers. This includes things like explosions, car stunts, fight scenes, and makeup effects that are done in real life during filming. Think of it as the opposite of computer-generated (CGI) effects. Stunt coordinators and special effects teams work together to create these effects safely using various techniques like wire work, controlled explosions, or specially designed props. The term might also appear as "practical FX" or "physical effects" in job descriptions.

Examples in Resumes

Coordinated Practical Effects for high-speed car chase sequences in major action films

Designed and executed Physical Effects for superhero landing scenes using wire systems

Supervised Practical FX team of 15 members for explosion and fire stunts

Typical job title: "Practical Effects Specialists"

Also try searching for:

Special Effects Coordinator Physical Effects Supervisor Stunt Coordinator Effects Artist SFX Technician Practical FX Designer Special Effects Artist

Where to Find Practical Effects Specialists

Industry Organizations

Job Boards

Professional Networks

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you plan and budget for complex practical effects sequences?

Expected Answer: Should discuss risk assessment, team coordination, equipment needs, safety protocols, and cost management while maintaining creative vision.

Q: Describe a challenging practical effect you've overseen and how you handled complications.

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate problem-solving abilities, leadership skills, and experience with complex effects coordination while prioritizing safety.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What safety protocols do you follow when setting up practical effects?

Expected Answer: Should explain basic safety procedures, equipment checks, team communication, and emergency protocols.

Q: How do you coordinate with other departments when planning effects?

Expected Answer: Should discuss communication with camera, lighting, and stunt teams, plus understanding of scheduling and logistics.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What's your experience with basic practical effects equipment?

Expected Answer: Should be able to discuss common tools and materials used in basic effects, showing familiarity with industry-standard equipment.

Q: How do you assist in setting up and testing simple practical effects?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate understanding of basic setup procedures, safety awareness, and ability to follow senior team members' instructions.