Inside Heroes

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Inside Heroes is a series of short behind-the-scenes videos that display the making of Heroes.

Visual Effects

Mark Kolpack, Anthony Ocampo, and Brian Weaver (all from Stargate Digital) expound on the difference between special effects and visual effects--namely that visual effects generally are those effects achieved after filming has finished. They explain the process using the Tokyo scene in which Hiro stops time to save a Japanese schoolgirl.

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  The first step of the process is to build 3D objects.
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  The next step is to match actual camera moves to digital camera moves.
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  Green riggings are used to support up actors and props, and are digitally erased.
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  Then 3D objects are incorporated and camera track moves are adjusted for precision.
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  Finally, film grain, focus effects, and other aspects are added to enhance realism.
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  Adrian Pasdar is shot in front of a green screen.
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  Visual effects artists add motion blur and other elements.
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  A digital version of Nathan is created.
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  Filmed versions are replaced with digital versions.
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  Visual effects are most effective when they are not distracting, but enhance the story.