Fireworks can significantly add to a movie. Most of the time, they symbolize celebration and love when the story wraps up. Maybe the protagonist finally claims victory or the villains fall to justice.
If you plan for fireworks, there are some precautions you need to take. Remember these six safety tips when you film your fireworks scenes.
1. Research the Laws
The first tip is to research the laws in the city and state you’re filming. Most states allow people to use fireworks recreationally, but some exceptions exist. For example, Massachusetts bans all fireworks for private use — you can’t even use sparklers. Only professionals are allowed to perform fireworks displays.
Do you want to film in New York? You’ll need to obtain a permit through a local agency. The person in charge of the firework display needs a pyrotechnician certificate of competence to comply with state law. Most states allow typical consumer fireworks, but filmmakers must know the rules. Otherwise, they risk penalties and law enforcement shutting down the set.
Some filmmakers and directors feel the need to do everything themselves. However, in this circumstance, it’s best to let the experts handle it. In fact, some filming locations may require you to hire a pyrotechnician. They’ll ensure your display detonates correctly on the first try.
2. Find a Suitable Location
Once you determine the city and state, you must find a suitable location for a fireworks display. Two decisions are necessary here — where the fireworks display will happen and where the cameras will be.
You must be conscious of the skyline when filming fireworks in the city. Are there tall buildings blocking your view? Where can you get the best shots of the fireworks without them being too far away? Scouting is essential for the fireworks scene, just like the other shots in the movie. Use a few fireworks to take a few test shots before deciding on a location.
3. Properly Store the Fireworks
Once you have your fireworks, you must store them safely until it’s time to film. Overlooking this step could lead to disaster. At worst, the fireworks could detonate and cause destruction.
Start by placing the fireworks in non-flammable containers with tightly closed lids. It’s best to put the fireworks in a cool, dry atmosphere away from electrical appliances, cardboard boxes and plastic bags. It may go without saying, but keep the pyrotechnics away from open flames like a stove. Even being in a hot garage can be detrimental to the fireworks.
When outside, protect the fireworks from precipitation. Employ waterproof gear like tarps to keep everything dry. You may also need to resort to unconventional sources. For example, cling film effectively keeps fireworks dry and many people use it as a temporary bandage when they get hurt.
4. Check the Weather
Weather can significantly hinder filming. Rain and thunderstorms can destroy your equipment, and extreme heat can cause dehydration and heat stroke for the filming crew. You’ll also need to be vigilant of the weather for your fireworks scenes.
Launching fireworks is best with clear skies and low humidity, but you might not be fortunate enough for these conditions. Droughts bring the risk of large fires and moisture can reduce the brightness of the fireworks display. The worst-case scenario is lightning strikes and starts a fire on the ground. Filmmakers can’t control the weather, but they can plan around it by checking the weather forecast and preparing for schedule shifts.
5. Get Creative
Independent films often have tight budgets, so an hour-long fireworks display might not be in the cards. Your budget may only have enough money for one shot to film the fireworks. Modern technology lets you get creative and save money while getting the best shots.
For example, some filmmakers have started using computer-generated imagery (CGI) for their fireworks displays instead of real pyrotechnics. Weather and safety can be problematic, so CGI comes to the rescue by generating realistic clips of fireworks for any film. Remember the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing? Some opening ceremony fireworks were CGI and prepared months before the event.
Switching to CGI fireworks can be an effective cost-saving measure because the average viewer will have difficulty differentiating between real and fake pyrotechnics. It also makes your filming plans more environmentally friendly, making it easier for you to round up investors in the project.
6. Monitor the Animals
Animals are often integral parts of films. Though, they’re much more challenging to manage than humans — especially if your film includes animals outside of cats and dogs. Fireworks startle many animals and can cause them to run away or attack others. Be mindful of the on-set animals and the native species. For example, bald eagles feel threatened by fireworks and could permanently abandon their habitats.
It may help to have an on-site expert to monitor the animals through the scenes. These trainers can provide medication to alleviate anxiety and ensure they don’t run off. It’s also wise to watch the animals to ensure they don’t eat or chew on the fireworks.
Ending With a Bang
Fireworks create terrific scenes. Filmmakers often use them for celebration and comedic relief. Remember when Pippin and Merry launched the dragon firework and nearly ruined the birthday party?
Fireworks add a lot to films, but they require special planning. Use this guide for safety tips and protecting everyone on set, including animals.
