A Look at the 20 Titles On the Best Special Effects Shortlist

Scene from Mad Max: Fury Road

In today's cinema, there's a lot of reliance on special effects to compliment the story. It's something that is both accepted and controversial to purists. The best examples of special effects are those that don't draw attention to themselves and end up making it look like practical effects. The Academy has released its 20 nominees on the shortlist vying for this year's Best Special Effects Oscar nominations. While there are a few familiar big budget blockbusters, there's also a few that are likely to make you a little confused. The following is the list of films on the list followed by any additional thoughts.

Howard Returns to Bountiful Excitement with First "In the Heart of the Sea" Trailer

Chris Hemsworth

It is hard to write for something called The Oscar Buzz without giving some consideration to director Ron Howard anytime he comes out with a new film. While this one is unfortunately not going to be eligible for this year's race, it does look really good in ways that a March release usually doesn't (here's looking at you, Serena). Packed with adventure, In the Heart of the Sea is a particularly grandiose film full of peril and rather effective looking set pieces. With Chris Hemsworth leading the film, there can only be hope that the film is so great that it overcomes its humdrum release date and becomes something far greater. At least, the first trailer would suggest the chances.