Making Magic is the story of how visual effects are created for movies and video games—and how they are influenced by the laws of nature that govern the real world. Join Peter Stormare on a thrilling journey and discover how effects are created—from equations to explosions.
Making Magic is an 8K fulldome show in 3D based on the research behind digital visual effects. It is produced within the Wisdome project by Norrköping’s Visualisation Center C, with support from the Knut and Alice Wallenberg Foundation.
Digital special effects are used in movies and video games to create events, worlds, and experiences that we otherwise could not partake in. In Making Magic, we want to show how we create these types of special effects—and show them on the entire dome. We include a range of techniques and things that are actually used in the industry—from 3D modeling and texturing to advanced simulations.
We start with a research phase. We then develop a synopsis that forms the basis for a script, which we develop with input from subject experts. At the same time, we sketch out a storyboard, which becomes the basis for our animatic—a kind of rough and low-resolution version of the film. From the 3D programs, we render out individual frames and then follow up with post-production. The sound design takes place in parallel during the final part of the production process and plays a major role in the audience experience.
Like everyone else, you’ve probably seen cool special effects in movies and games. In the show, you’ll journey into a world of digital effects and learn more about how they are created – especially the advanced mathematics behind them.
The Making Magic exhibition features an interactive installation where you can discover how fire, smoke, and liquids are created digitally. What makes them look so realistic? What calculations are used? What happens behind the scenes, and how can a dinosaur come to life? Try it yourself!
The installation has been created by Visualization center C within the Wisdome project, with support from the Knut and Alice Wallenberg Foundation.
The installation is available to view at our Science Centers. It is also possible to sign a license to use the installation at museums, science centers or in other educational contexts. Contact us for more information!
