Animatronics for Film & Television
At
Oracle FX, we design and engineer bespoke animatronic systems that introduce controlled mechanical performance to practical creature builds.
From precision facial mechanisms to full-scale creature motion builds, our animatronics are developed for reliability, seamless integration and believable on-camera movement.
Each system is engineered to work in harmony with prosthetics, creature suits and practical builds — delivering controlled, repeatable performance under production conditions.
Mechanical Effects Designed for Cinematic Realism
Film animatronics must balance engineering precision with artistic intent.
Our builds prioritise:
- Naturalistic movement
- Performer safety and comfort
- On-set reliability
- Integration with prosthetic systems
- Durability across shoot schedules
Every animatronic component is tested for functionality under real production conditions.
Our Animatronic Capabilities
Facial Animatronic Systems
Subtle mechanical rigs designed to control eye movement, jaw articulation and expressive facial details for creature and character builds.
Integrated Creature Mechanisms
Custom-built internal structures that support movement within creature suits and hybrid prosthetic systems.
Mechanical Props & Effects
Engineered motion systems for hero props and interactive practical effects required on set.
Pneumatic & Servo-Based Systems
Precision-engineered mechanisms designed for controlled, repeatable performance under filming conditions.
Animatronics Gallery
A selection of bespoke animatronic systems developed for film and television production. From precision facial mechanisms to full-scale creature motion builds, each project demonstrates engineered movement, integration within practical effects and reliable performance under production conditions.
Animatronics are not built in isolation.
We collaborate closely with directors, cinematographers and prosthetic departments to ensure:
Movement aligns with character intention
Systems remain hidden within design
Camera angles accommodate mechanics
Repairs and maintenance are manageable on set
Our team understands the pace and pressure of film production, reliability is as critical as realism.
Engineering Meets Performance
Behind the scenes of a broadcast feature highlighting our animatronic systems.
The Animatronic Development Process
We evaluate character requirements, script demands and performance expectations before determining mechanical solutions.
Concept & Technical Planning
Mechanical systems are built and integrated into prosthetic skins or creature frameworks.
Fabrication & Integration
Digital planning and prototype testing ensure motion systems behave naturally and consistently.
Design & Prototyping
We conduct functional testing prior to filming and provide technical support during production when required.
Testing & On-Set Support
Why Practical Animatronics Remain Essential
For modern film and television productions, practical animatronics combined with digital enhancement deliver the most convincing and controllable results.
While CGI offers flexibility, practical animatronics provide:
Natural
Authentic light interaction
Physical
Tangible on-set presence
Reduced
Lower digital correction
Enhanced
Stronger performer response
UK Animatronics Studio, Supporting Global Productions
Based in the United Kingdom, Oracle FX collaborates with international film and television productions requiring precision-engineered practical effects.
From independent features to studio-scale projects, our workshop delivers scalable animatronic solutions tailored to production needs.
Our animatronic builds integrate mechanical systems within sculpted forms to deliver controlled, repeatable movement. Designed for reliability and on-set durability, each mechanism is developed to enhance character expression while maintaining seamless visual realism.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of animatronics do you create?
We design and engineer animatronic systems, from manual rod puppeteered mechansims to full-scale radio controlled motion builds for film and television that can include; eye movement and blinks, ear flicks, nose twitches, eyebrow expression and lip movements. Our work can also inlcude more complex multi-axis mechanical platforms integrated within creature suits and practical effects.
Do your animatronics integrate with prosthetics?
Yes. Our animatronic systems are developed to integrate seamlessly with prosthetic skins, fabricated muscle-suits and full creature suits. Mechanical components are concealed within a fibreglass form to keep builds light on the actor and airflow to the componants. We maintain excellent visual realism while delivering controlled, repeatable movement on camera.
Are your animatronic systems durable for extended shoots?
All systems are engineered for production durability. We prioritise reliability, actor comfort and serviceable components to ensure performance consistency across extended filming schedules and demanding environments.
Do you provide on-set technical support?
When required, we provide on-set technical supervision to support calibration, actor comfort and any adjustments and maintenance throughout production. This ensures animatronic performance remains consistent under live shooting conditions.
Can animatronics be combined with CGI?
Absolutely. Practical animatronics are frequently combined with digital enhancement to achieve the most convincing results. Physical presence on set provides authentic lighting interaction and performer engagement, while CGI can extend or refine movement where necessary.
Discuss Your Animatronic Requirements
If your production requires precision-engineered animatronics designed for cinematic realism and dependable on-set performance, our team would welcome the opportunity to collaborate.
From early technical planning through fabrication and production support, we deliver systems engineered to perform reliably under filming conditions.