Uploaded September 2021 | Updated September 2026, 3 weeks ago

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This is the first episode of the new "Explain like I'm five" series where I go through popular vfx techniques and explain them in an easy and understandable way!

This episode is all about cloud tanks.
You might not be familiar with the technique but you certainly know the movies it's being used on! Cloud tanks are Hollywood's way to create magical, out-of-this-world clouds! The results speak for themselves! Join me as I go through some of the most popular movies that use them!
Enjoy!

More episodes from the Explain like I'm 5 series:
Dry for Wet:
youtu.be/k_lwp_a4yVU

Morphing:
youtu.be/eiT-lwU1oiY



Movies using the cloud tank effect:
• Close encounters of the third kind [1977]
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• Flash Gordon [1980]
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• Raiders of the lost Ark [1981]
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• Poltergeist [1982]
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• Neverending Story [1984]
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• Starman [1984]
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• Ghostbusters [1984]
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• Cocoon [1985]
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• Star Trek IV [1986]
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• Bill & Ted's excellent adventure [1989]
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• Total Recall [1990]
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• Independence Day [1996]
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• Tree of Life [2011]
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Note:
When you buy something using the affiliate links in this video or any of my other videos, I earn a small affiliate commission at no additional cost to you. Your support is appreciated!


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