ABSTRACT
One of the classic uses of lens flares is to suggest a character possesses superior physical, psychological, and even supernatural qualities, in what are known commonly as “hero shots”. In some cases, lens flares are incorporated to such a degree that they obscure a character from view, silhouetting them and forming an aura effect that can imply spiritual and even divine attributes. These shots are often featured after a character accomplishes a particularly difficult task or overcomes an extraordinary challenge, and are sometimes accompanied by narration and an epic, triumphant music cue that further contextualizes their depiction as a heroic figure. This lens flare technique has transcended language and cultural boundaries, and can be found in movies from virtually any national cinema and genre. Advancements in computer-generated animation have reached a level of photorealism that allow the creation of lens flare effects virtually identical to the real thing.
