The plane video has VFX elements used for the portal and is likely a hoax.

Unraveling the Viral Plane Video: Evidence of Visual Effects and Potential Hoax

In recent weeks, a startling video depicting a plane seemingly interacting with a mysterious portal has captivated online audiences, prompting widespread discussion and speculation. However, a closer examination suggests that the captivating portal effect used in the footage may not be authentic, but instead a product of established visual effects (VFX) techniques from the 1990s. This revelation casts doubt on the video’s purported authenticity and highlights the importance of scrutinizing digital content before accepting extraordinary claims.

Identifying the VFX Origins

The key to understanding the effect lies in recognizing its visual similarities to effects from older VFX resources. Specifically, the portal animation appears to match a sprite effect from an early VFX CD-ROM titled Pyromania! Pro, released during the 1990s. This resource, which can be accessed through archives such as archive.org, contains a collection of visual effects clips and sprites familiar to those versed in retro digital media.

One particular file, SHOCKWV, available within the Pyromania! Pro archive, exhibits effects remarkably similar to the portal in the viral video. When comparing frames side by side and overlaying images, the match becomes unmistakable. To verify this yourself, the archive can be explored at this link: Pyromania! Pro – QuickTime Clips.

The Search Process and Technical Investigation

The process of tracing the effect involved several methodical steps:

1. Initial Observation: The portal effect in the video appeared familiar but seemed digitally manipulated. Recognizing the strangeness, the investigator performed a comparative analysis against known VFX assets.

2. Relating to Retro Video Game Graphics: Recalling visual effects from classic video games, the familiar sprite resembled an enemy projectile from Duke Nukem 3D, specifically the Octobrain enemy’s attack. This sprite, originating from a 90s PC game, has been documented in retro gaming communities and can be found via image searches.

3. Source Verification: A Reddit post detailing Duke Nukem 3D sprite sheets helped confirm the sprite’s origin and provided context about its real-world sources. A link to an archived site listing VFX effects further supported the connection.

4. Archival Search: Using archive.org, multiple Pyromania!