Wire-flying is a theatrical
stunt which involves suspending an actor from high-tension
wire
Overhead power cabling. The conductor consists of seven strands of steel (centre, high tensile strength), surrounded by four outer layers of aluminium (high conductivity). Sample diameter 40 mm
A wire is a flexible strand of metal.
Wire is c ...
s, normally with a harness concealed under the
costume
Costume is the distinctive style of dress or cosmetic of an individual or group that reflects class, gender, profession, ethnicity, nationality, activity or epoch. In short costume is a cultural visual of the people.
The term also was tradition ...
, to simulate the action of flying or falling, especially in the presence of other actors.
When other actors are not in the scene, a
visual effect
Visual effects (sometimes abbreviated VFX) is the process by which imagery is created or manipulated outside the context of
a live-action shot in filmmaking and video production.
The integration of live-action footage and other live-action foota ...
would more often be used to simulate this for reasons of both safety and cost.
Wire-flying has been done in film, television, and occasionally live theatre for decades. As
Superman,
George Reeves
George Reeves (born George Keefer Brewer; January 5, 1914 – June 16, 1959) was an American actor. He is best known for portraying Superman in the television series '' Adventures of Superman'' (1952–1958).
His death at age 45 from a g ...
was attached to wires for dramatic aerial exits.
References
Special effects
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