Special Effects 1984
“Mary Jean is just dying to get in the movies… She's about to get her wish.”
- Status
- Released
- Runtime
- 106 minutes
- Director
- Larry Cohen
- Networks
- Hemdale, New Line Cinema, Larco Productions
- Where to Stream
- Amazon Prime Video, fuboTV, MGM+ Amazon Channel
What is Special Effects?
Special Effects is a 1984 thriller and crime film released in the United States on November 16, 1984. The production has a runtime of one hour and forty-six minutes and is rated R.
- Type
- Film
- Year
- 1984
- Status
- Released
- Runtime
- 106 minutes
- Release date
- Nov 16, 1984
- Original language
- EN
- Origin
- United States of America
- Studios
- Hemdale, New Line Cinema, Larco Productions
- Genres
- Drama, Horror, Thriller
- Updated
At a glance
- Rating
- ★ TMDB users: 4.9/10 from 51 votes
- Episode runtime
- ~106 minutes
- Status
- Released
- Networks
- Hemdale, New Line Cinema, Larco Productions
Where to watch in United States
Stream
Amazon Prime Video
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Tubi TVStream
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Amazon Prime VideoStream
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Amazon Prime Video
fuboTV
MGM+ Amazon Channel
Philo
MGM Plus Roku Premium Channel
MGM PlusAmazon Prime Video with AdsWith ads
Tubi TVRent
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Trailer
Overview
Special Effects is a 1984 thriller and crime film released in the United States on November 16, 1984. The production has a runtime of one hour and forty-six minutes and is rated R. The plot centers on a megalomaniacal filmmaker named Chris Neville. In the film, reality and illusion collide when Neville murders a young would-be actress. Following the crime, he decides to produce a feature film based on the deed. To facilitate this project, he casts the deceased woman's husband as a patsy. Furthermore, Neville seeks out a person who bears a strong resemblance to the late actress to portray her in his movie. The promotional tagline for the film notes that the character Mary Jean is dying to get into the movies and is about to get her wish. The film explores the dark intersection of cinematic artifice and criminal activity as the filmmaker manipulates those around him to complete his project.
Should you watch it?
“A gripping exploration of drama and horror that commands attention through bold storytelling and immersive performances.”
- Masterfully balances sharp character dynamics with escalating narrative tension.
- High production value and confident direction keep each chapter visually arresting.
- Rich thematic depth offers plenty of reward for attentive viewers.
- Deliberate pacing requires patient investment before the overarching mystery unravels.
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Frequently asked questions
Where can I stream or watch Special Effects online?
Special Effects is currently available to watch or stream on Amazon Prime Video, fuboTV, MGM+ Amazon Channel, Philo. Check our live regional availability tracker above for latest direct streaming, subscription, rent, or purchase options.
Is Special Effects worth watching?
Special Effects holds a community rating of 4.9/10 based on 51 verified viewer ratings. It offers engaging Drama, Horror for fans of the genre.
How long is the movie Special Effects and when was it released?
Special Effects is a feature film with a runtime of 106 minutes. It was released in 1984. Release status: Released.
Who directed Special Effects?
Special Effects was directed by Larry Cohen.
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