Hollywood Tricks and Practical Effects

Get ready for a mind-boggling array of movie making secrets without using any CGI or computer effects. In 1994, I made a full motion picture (yes 35mm) that played in theaters all over the world, called "To the Ends of Time". It was epic. The budget was only 2.5 million. This video gives a glimpse into some of the crazy insane things we did to pull off what most people said was impossible. The paperback about the making of this movie is at www.dreamchasermovie.com and the movie itself is available on Amazon www.amazon.com...
and the DVD is also available on my website MarkusMovieDVD.com
To see more behind the scenes stuff from this movie, see the previous video.
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[@eastbaysrfr]

I've worked on over 40 Hollyweird features ('Top Gun', 'Waterworld', and 'Backdraft') as an FX man but started on a no-budget sci-fi film before I even knew what a call sheet was and was stressed out to the max on that little show. So what you pulled off for $2.5 impressed the hell put of me.

[@bravo2966]

I don't know what a call sheet is

[@2degucitas]

What's the name of that no budget film?

[@tyedyemike7425]

liar

[@80sActionLund]

What is the name of the no budget sci fi film

[@SirTools]

I think my jaw dropped 100 times with those painted glass shots and other tricks. I love the family feel to making movies on the set. I was in " The gingerbread man" , and worked well over 12hrs on a Saturday night for the shots needed and it was the folks on the set that made it all work so well together and I loved every minute of it.

[@kencornwell]

Markus never disappoints. I liked the painting the King talked to. 4x8 painted in one night. What a talent. Thanks Markus.

[@Kiwireels]

I'm a cinematographer, colourist and getting to sound design. We filmed a movie last year total cost of $30K making sure we pay everyone the best we could. We are proud of what we made and happy to share it with you soon. However this video did inspire me hearing you come from the heart and making no excuses on what holds us back. Well said

[@sidehustlevideosUk]

The amount of work that you put into that film is astounding markus bravo and the artwork and how u did the effects 😘 wow man true dream chaser and professional that puts 99% of other channels to shame I've watched u since around 3k subs you should be way above 80k

[@cuentaparadeciridioteces3648]

Jesus Markus... You are a frigging legend! I think you have more experience on one finger than 90% of the "CiNeMaaTiC LoOOok" KZbinrs. Your advice and wisdom is very appreciated and quite needed nowadays.

[@robynmasters335]

I'm from the 80's and 90's as well. My parents were actors so we lived in Los Angeles. My cousin was a model maker for the film industry. He was also ex-Navy so he also had an explosives license to blow up his miniatures. I do lots of arts and crafts but I've loved model-making since I was a teenager in the 80s. I would also help build sets for the theatre back in those days. I still prefer old school effects far more than modern CGI. Love what you do.

[@IDontBelong]

The endless smile on your face explaining this 25 minutes of epic nostalgia is priceless. Thank you for sharing with us. I’m amazed at the amount of creativity of random “useless stuff”. I hope your ingenuity is remembered throughout Hollywood for time to come. Thank you for the inspiration.

[@stanleyfamUK]

Sounds odd, but i kinda wish you had been around at the very start of the movie making industry, your ingenuity would have made you a legend alongside some of those early movie effect heroes like George Melies or film makers like William Selig. You are just a living, genuine, authentic movie Artist - genius “vacu foam - you just…. then you have a breast plate “

[@theothertonydutch]

@@HouseholdDog Studios do appreciate them. There's more than a single house of thought in movie making.

[@kajsa6358]

Why? That's an odd thing to say to someone who just shared a bunch of tips from his career. This is still effective to this day.

[@orangejjay]

This makes no sense. The things that he used and did are common effects tricks that were learned by people in the biz before him. They don't call it "movie magic" for nothing ... and if anything, they did just as much movie magic in the beginning of the movie making industry as they do now.

[@alexscott7819]

Just when I feel absolutely sapped of inspiration and motivation, I look at your story and your positive mindset and it heightens me. I keep wondering how the hell I'm gonna pull anything off, and my big dreams. But then I think of the creativity you imbued in this project and the solutions you curbed and seriously, it's so inspiring.

[@ericalvarez9345]

Im going to watch this again with my son, he’s going through a phase where he really enjoys making stop motion films with his legos. He started playing around with a green screen recently but I know he is going to love these practical ideas

[@BornAgainFarmGirl]

The craftsmanship on your production Markus is really fascinating, so we’ll done 🎊🎉🥳‼️

[@MileyonDisney]

That balcony shot was really cool, as were all the foreground miniatures. And the dead queen painting was awesome. This is one of the most-fascinating videos on your channel yet. I was literally on the edge of my seat through the whole thing. You are one awesome dude!

[@Alex_Watrous]

I've been loving all these behind the scenes talks. Looking forward to reading your book!

[@malmedia]

OMG, that was insane. The foreground miniatures and the paintings and toilet paper and other paper and, and, and... A maz ing.

[@TheAaronalden]

That is such a wild story, Markus! Thank you for sharing your experiences with us!

[@ivankiefer3886]

I can see the effort behind this video to explain the behind the scenes. Once again thanks for the entertaining video!

[@VintageInsightPhotography]

The 1980’s-90’s were a magical time for visual creativity. We had to do it all in camera, no CGI or Photoshop. I really, really enjoyed this video.

[@lawrencescofield7575]

Man the things you have created, imagined and done are just amazing. I bet the things in your head are some of the most time thought imaginative thing we would just be in awe over.. I love listening to this stuff. Always appreciated of the things you share Markus. Thanks you.

[@strangelylookingperson]

Hollywood got its glory only because of people like you, highly talented professionals.

[@lindalawson4296]

Thank you for all that you share with us. I have been watching since you began this channel, and I look forward to every post.

[@19nineteenthirteen19]

I usually preview these videos to see what Joel is about and haven't really stopped to listen to you all that much. Glad I did this morning. I really needed to hear this. Very powerful and impeccably timed. Thankyou for being available to the Holy Spirit to pass this along to me!! Wow. Maranatha!

[@marcusosterholm3755]

Ones more. You give me the energy and kick in the ass to fight for my identity and the movie I need to make. Thank you so evermore 🇸🇪😃👍😊

[@ChannelWright]

Your film has an exquisite handmade quality to it - like a Faberge egg!

[@alphaskwurl]

Man I could listen to you tell me about this stuff for hours

[@weisserth]

Damn, now I gotta watch the movie! :P Markus, this is amazing. You are truly a master of forced perspective. I learnt a lot in this video!

[@roguedemon100]

So, what is the title of this movie? I'd love to watch it, with this New-found knowledge!

[@jennyjen6412]

It’s called To The Ends of Time

[@roguedemon100]

@@jennyjen6412thanks for that information! 👍

[@PixPete]

A few years ago I used to design sets for those walk-through Haunted Houses you see popping up around Halloween, and I always thought I was a cheapo having to make stuff out of recycled garbage but oh man you took it to a whole new level with this movie! I'm mind blown by some of the things you did, and the "bird bath balconies" really made chuckle. Bravo man, bravo!

[@surfing4theloveofit]

Markus " one of a kind " the world needs more people like you .

[@AgeofRogerio]

So much work OMG, but obviously you had the passion to drive you. Thanks for sharing Markus.

[@BornAgainFarmGirl]

I was wondering where you got all those animals, I thought it would cost a fortune to have. The amount of creative energy that was brought to your vision is a miracle !

[@lindamarie6574]

Genius! You can teach infamous movie makers how to budget a movie also! You are a multi-talented man, the best to you!

[@jwuman]

Love it.....that looked like allot of effort but everyone looked like they were having a blast..litterally in some cases..lol...so cool to see the little visual tricks ...thanks for posting and sharing Markus...

[@ron.v]

You are a phenomenal talent with unequaled modesty. Your industry needs more people like you. Thank you for sharing the tricks of the trade.

[@occamsrayzor]

You, sir, are the quintessential definition of an artist.

[@johnsaucerhunter]

Really Enjoyed all of the behind the scenes footage and how you and the crew/talent help you pull the Movie off. Well done and a great positive bit of motivation for the 'dreamers' of today.

[@thatguyoverthere2755]

This man has become my newest film making Inspiration! I'll be directing my first short next month called Whispers of Witches. A horror thriller. Thank you so much for being an inspiration

[@KennyGPhotography34]

How freaking cool! I’ve been following you for a long time because of your sound/audio knowledge. I had no idea your roots go back to movie making and actually “making” movies by hand. I love this and sharing it with all my friends to see! Keep up the good work because I’ve learned a lot about making better audio by watching your videos!

[@mr.c8033]

Man...Who wouldn't by a dvd/blu of this movie with Markus doing a narration all the way through? THAT, would be awesome.

[@Wulfhard1965]

Now this is really interesting. I would like to see a whole series of in-depth instruction videos how to build models, paint fake marble and other things from Markus. Or a book. Why not do a series like Bob Ross ? :-)

[@kurtb8474]

You're a man after my own heart. I wanted to do all of this 40 years ago. What you did was amazing and I can understand the fun of making movie magic.

[@PickinPins]

My God Markus! You are so unbelievable dude! I just couldn't believe what I was watching here in this video... Your ideas and inspiration are just off he cuff bro. Say hi to Cara for me!!

[@blaster-zy7xx]

I’m so impressed with the creativity in figuring out how to do the impossible over and over again, on a shoestring budget.

[@nunyubiznezz]

Outstanding! What are the chances of getting a tutorial of your realistic cloth and draped fabric painting technique!??!! _The overfed little rat is hilarious!_

[@orglarovin]

Markus! Ive been in the industry for 20 years now (VFX).. and just WOW the enthusiasm you project.. Mindblowing.. I wish you the best and I hope you get a big budget to do whatever you wish! Youre worth it definitely!!!

[@Cre8tvMG]

There should be an Oscar for creativity on a low budget.

[@Tequilaboylv]

You are nothing short of brilliant.

[@mediabear]

This is simply fantastic, thank you for this series.

[@uncle0eric]

I love the cleverness of film effects editing before CGI. Thanks for sharing your behind-the-scenes experiences!

[@actorcharleswalker]

Very talented and creative use of time and money. I wish you were still making movies. I am an actor out of Oklahoma. I mostly work in Dallas, Austin and Houston. If you ever make another movie I would love to audition for a role and be a part of the creative process.

[@dbeach4044]

Best video you’ve ever done. Creativity, humility, enthusiasm, a dream, and infinite teaching moments. Fabulous.

[@garywicenski184]

I have to watch your movie a few more times to catch all the cool special effects you just explained. Thanks for making this insightful video of your work . I wish there was more stuff like this out there so as to help appreciate all the hard work behind a finished project. You should be proud of this one as it was great !

[@anyuisbjoern]

I am without words from all this awe 😍😍😍😍

[@Moriarty2007]

Dude, you are awesome! All that you have done is amazing. I like models, miniatures, and camera tricks. It's so nice, thank you! 😉

[@tesla_tap]

I read your book several years ago (a great read) and fun to see and hear a bit more of your adventures in filmmaking. I expect you've inspired many budding filmmakers over the years!

[@chrisnielsen9184]

This channel is gold. Very inspiring!

[@MWCarlsson]

Wow - Just Wow! I'm flabbergasted, impressed and invigorated by seeing "what can be done" with a bit of grit and imagination!

[@EugenBrinzoiu]

Thank you for sharing…it’s incredible how lucky we are seeing all this.

[@TheRealTonyCastillo]

Great video, gave me a chuckle a few times of the ingenuity you used to make that movie. A true artist for sure!! Thanks for taking us down memory lane with you. Have a good day.

[@Gibs007]

This is very impressive, we are lucky to have 3d software like maya, nuke , cinema 4d etc for quick cgi today, I would love to learn from someone like you M.Markus, I can only imagine what knowledge and skills you have, we don’t have the luxury of having people like you here in Cameroon 🇨🇲 and I can only be grateful for your channel 🙏🏾

[@goldbearbunny4787]

Unbelievable talent you have 😀

[@MrHornback]

Markus, your passion is so inspiring. Thank you, brother.

[@winstonzeogar6968]

You are a real motivater, you took tears from my eyes with such a motivating story. You make the impossible possible, this is a true lesson of accomplishing your dreams.

[@AnthonyWW68]

Been a fan of your videos for a while. Finally watched the movie yesterday. Loved it! And finally I could watch THIS video with context. Love THIS video too! Thanks for sharing man!

[@richiebricker]

You definitely give out inspiration. Thanks

[@heckensteiner4713]

Absolutely amazing. So many awesome miniatures and I love all of the "crank punk" gadgetry!

[@elversusfilm]

What?! I just now found your channel - this is a treasure chest for low budget filmmakers. Gotta try out some of that stuff for sure! Thank you for sharing - I had a big smile on my face during this video cause I just love these kind of movie tricks!!

[@LudosErgoSum]

What an ABSOLUTE LEGEND!!! Thank you for sharing this. I'm blown away by the amount of labor, the quality of the props and artwork, and the creativity all over the place - the heart and passion that went into all of this!🫶

[@SnapshotSniper]

You are legend! The pick up truck and horse story, amazing!!!

[@john2000l]

At 70, I remember how to use "every" resource you had, because as you rightly pointed out we did not have computers, we did not have computer graphics. A lot of it had to come from looking at anything, everywhere to use to get the work done. I was an amateur with a number of friends on amateur films as a grip, and while my set title was not the most essential part in a film production, I got to see so many aspects of film making and know how hard everyone had to put in the efforts. Now I have 3 crossover cameras and digital software for things, but they are very small and not cinematic. I did not get burned out, but age caught up with me (it does to everyone). I miss the days of enjoying people who had endless energy, was always up for getting it done, and who worked whatever hours needed to meet the deadline. Life was fun in those days.

[@moikee1971]

So interesting and creative!! I loved seeing this behind the scenes!

[@glendarelli]

I am going to rent this movie...I'm excited to watch it tonight. You're so awesome Markus!!!!

[@BudhagRizzo]

The artistic talent and creativity alone makes you a genius -- the mat-painting, miniature-building. I mean, wow!

[@kingsleynwachukwu1495]

You are a legend, you inspire me to do something different in My Country Nigeria. Thank you

[@knightforlorn6731]

you are a hero to movie magic. Love this kind of stuff and it is always so welcome to see up close. I cant wait to see this movie you are showing off.

[@willj4243]

This whole video is just amazing. What a great story, to see how a fantasy film comes together with a punk-rock sense of DIY energy and creative thinking.

[@DMaria-ut7ko]

I am not a photography or film person, but I love watching Markus' channels because he and Cara simply have amazing content. I have known that Markus is a genius, and this video highlights SOME of his genius/mastery in so many things. Markus has a fun sense of humor, too. I am supposed to be doing my homework this weekend, and instead, I continue to reply the start of this video because it's simply hilarious to me! 😆🧡

[@engagementSquared]

You are an amazing guy Markus. I'm blown away!

[@cameranerdsmedia]

Markus! Thanks for sharing your passion here on KZbin! Feel very lucky to have found your channel

[@Sunil_Krishnan]

What a legend you are! So much you have done.

[@JohnJohnson-bo5sv]

Mario Bava painted on glass too. Super impressed, found the link to the film can't wait to watch it. Your vids have charged up to get some stands and a small box and take on the sun. thanks for what you do the info has been really appreciated.

[@Paul.McGhie]

I love this video! No problem cannot be solved here. Thanks Markus!

[@mikehenrichs5449]

Markus, I'm a 70 yr old man you have inspired me yo chase my dream of making a movie, in the early 70s, shot on 8mm making stop motion films. Bravo to you lighting my fires on telling a visual stories. I'll see you at the ocars peace. Mike henrichs. BTW a good story line is the key to a great movie. Not the equipment.

[@davidvincent1093]

I have been there and done that in a couple of movies I was in where we all were volunteers. My wife and I both were in a movie that was shown thousands of times and I believe it is still playing daily. It was the history of the Golden Spike and what it took to get there and is played daily at the California Start Rail Road Museum and to our knowledge has been playing for around 30 years now and even earned nominations for the work done on it. So I understand what you had to put out and the feeling and love it took. Thank you for your posting this and I look forward to seeing other things you do in the future as well as how you do them. Good luck and have a great life ahead

[@geraldillo]

The painting of the castle on the glass is very impressive. You are very talented.

[@mercyfald]

Thank you, Markus! It was hugely ispiring, as always!

[@MYUSATRAVELS]

Thank You! 😍

[@GrowWithTrung]

Love you Markus. You are wonderful!

[@ashley2108]

Witchcraft I say! Absolutely mindblowing. I watched this twice and lost track how many times I re wound.

[@LB-xk6fk]

You never cease to fascinate me! Thank you for being you!!!! 💕❤️🙏🏻🌳

[@alandavies8313]

Wow what a talent you have Markus!

[@parrotheadfelt]

THANK YOU Markus for the behinnd the story of the ship in the bottle. U the man !!

[@reallyfurious]

Fantastic. All these stories make me want to make a movie.

[@adrianleonard8315]

This is incredible! In-camera tricks are what make filmmaking so exciting to me! Thanks for this channel and thanks for keeping me inspired! Now...I'm off to make some movies!

[@williamsiyanko4631]

Very interesting and ingenious.

[@michaelstewart5754]

Just amazing....plus the dude is really talented too.All that painted artwork he did..👏👏👏👏

[@croydondoulatt8248]

Thanks for all the information! I have been following your channel for a few months now, and I'm getting a lot of insight on how to improve my skills on my podcast. I must say that a lot of it is over my head lol. Love your videos!

[@xman6717]

Your last 4 minutes are truly words of wisdom. Gen. Patton once said....tell your subordinates what you want to accomplish, NOT how to accomplish it. Stand back and watch what happens. You will be pleasantly surprised.

[@michaelangelo1887]

Incredible video Markus! Thank you for the inspiration!

[@donnytucker]

This is so great. You did such an amazing job with the budget you had to work it.

[@MysteryProductsLtd]

Brilliant ingenuity and especially under seat of the pants time and budgetary pressures. Bravo.