F/X
Directed by Robert Mandel
A special effects wizard is hired by federal agents to fake a mobster's assassination, only to realize he has been set up as a scapegoat, forcing him to use his cinematic illusions to survive a lethal game of cat and mouse.
Where to Watch F/X
F/X Ratings & Reviews
- RichardFebruary 8, 2026I first rented F/X on VHS back in the 80s, and it felt like discovering a hidden gem. The movie had this clever mix of thriller and movie magic, creativity special effects used not just for entertainment, but as tools for survival. Watching it on VHS gave it that gritty, analog charm, where the slightly worn tape somehow made the suspense feel even more intense. Bryan Brown’s character, a special effects expert pulled into a dangerous setup, made the whole story feel fresh. It wasn’t a typical action film, it had a smart angle, showing how practical effects, illusions and misdirection could outwit the bad guys. For anyone who loved behind the scenes movie tricks, it was a treat. It’s one of those rentals that sticks with you because it felt different, creative, tense and very much a product of that era when VHS discoveries could surprise you in the best way.
F/X Trivia
F/X was released on February 7, 1986.
F/X was directed by Robert Mandel.
F/X has a runtime of 1h 49m.
F/X was produced by Jack Wiener, Dodi Fayed.
A special effects wizard is hired by federal agents to fake a mobster's assassination, only to realize he has been set up as a scapegoat, forcing him to use his cinematic illusions to survive a lethal game of cat and mouse.
The key characters in F/X are Roland 'Rollie' Tyler (Bryan Brown), Lt. Leo McCarthy (Brian Dennehy), Ellen (Diane Venora).
F/X is rated R.
F/X is a Thriller, Action, Crime film.
F/X has an audience rating of 5.4 out of 10.
F/X had a budget of $10M.
F/X has made $20.6M at the box office.