The Visual Effects Society have nominated what they found to be the best effects films this year. The list is pretty much what was expected, except for “Cloverfield” sneaking in there. It’s nice to see ‘Ben Button’s effects nominated (despite the film), as the effects field is usually comprised solely of fantasy films, comic book movies and the like. But what’s more of a surprise is the absence of “The Dark Knight.” We’re not going to say we didn’t see it coming because the film didn’t use as much CGI as the others (we see that as a good thing), but still thought it’s popularity would get it some nominations. Whether Oscar will see it this way, we’ll find out on Thurs. Just remember the Academy can suck sometimes when it comes to visual FX. Last year, “Transformers” swept the VES awards, yet “The Golden Compass” took home the statue. Outstanding Visual Effects in a Visual Effects Driven Motion Picture
THE CHRONICLES OF NARNIA – PRINCE CASPIAN
THE CURIOUS CASE OF BENJAMIN BUTTON
HELLBOY II THE GOLDEN ARMY
CLOVERFIELD
IRON MAN Outstanding Supporting Visual Effects in a Motion Picture
CHANGELING
EAGLE EYE
VALKYRIE
NIM’S ISLAND
SYNECDOCHE, NEW YORK Outstanding Animation in an Animated Motion Picture
BOLT – The Chase
KUNG FU PANDA – Everybody was Kung Fu Fighting
A MATTER OF LOAF AND DEATH – Piella’s Mansion
WALL-E Best Single Visual Effect of the Year
CLOVERFIELD – Statue of Liberty Crash and Woolworth Tower Collapse
THE CURIOUS CASE OF BENJAMIN BUTTON – Benjamin’s Secret
THE DAY THE EARTH STOOD STILL – Newborn Klaatu
INDIANA JONES AND THE KINGDOM OF THE CRYSTAL SKULL – Valley Destruction
IRON MANThey have more technical categories, including “Outstanding Matte Paintings” and “Outstanding Models and Miniatures” (where the ‘Dark Knight’ is nominated) at Awardsdaily.com
