1.
special effects (in film/TV)
Short for 特殊撮影. Refers to special effects techniques used in film and television production.
この映画は特撮がすごい。
The special effects in this movie are amazing.
最新の特撮技術を使った作品だ。
It's a work that uses the latest special effects technology.
特撮の現場では、ミニチュアやCGが組み合わされている。
On a special effects set, miniatures and CG are combined together.
2.
tokusatsu genre; live-action special effects entertainment
A genre of Japanese live-action film and television that makes heavy use of special effects, including series like Godzilla, Ultraman, and Super Sentai (Power Rangers). Recognized internationally by the loanword 'tokusatsu.'
子供の頃、特撮ヒーローに憧れていた。
When I was a child, I admired tokusatsu heroes.
日本の特撮は海外でも人気がある。
Japanese tokusatsu is popular overseas too.
ゴジラは日本を代表する特撮映画として、世界中で愛されている。
Godzilla is loved worldwide as an iconic Japanese tokusatsu film.
USAGE:
Abbreviation of 特殊撮影 (special photography/filming). In sense 1, it refers to the techniques themselves. In sense 2, it refers to the distinctive Japanese genre of live-action entertainment featuring these effects.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 特撮映画 (tokusatsu film)
- 特撮ヒーロー (tokusatsu hero)
- 特撮番組 (tokusatsu TV show)
- 特撮技術 (special effects technology)
CULTURE:
The tokusatsu genre is a cornerstone of Japanese pop culture. Major franchises include ウルトラマン (Ultraman), 仮面ライダー (Kamen Rider), and スーパー戦隊 (Super Sentai, adapted as Power Rangers in the West).