A scene from L.O.R.D: Legend of Ravaging Dynasties. [Photo provided to China Daily]

Xu recalls that, in his early years, most of the visual-effects creators would be hired only after most of the filming had ended. But, he says, that is not how things are done today.

"Now, without choreography in advance, it is difficult to insert digitally produced imagery into the real sets.

"The best special effects are when the audience does not realize whatever occurs on screen－whether it is an explosion or a disaster－is not produced using a computer."

Another reason the special-effects sector is not yet on par with its global rivals is domestic directors, cameramen and actors often have limited knowledge and experience when it comes to special effects.

While diehard sci-fi movie fans may be familiar with the idea of actors wearing electronic-sensing suits when they jump, run and scream to outrun some alien creature－despite the fact they're in an empty room covered in green cloth, which can be replaced by virtual sets in the post-production process－surprisingly, many in film industry are not familiar with this.

Yang Yuejuan, a veteran producer who has done some visual-effects blockbusters, says Chinese stars often feel embarrassed to perform in such an environment. "They'll complain it's hard for them to imagine things when there is actually nothing in front of them," says Yang.

Another problem faced by visual-effects professionals is that many producers do not realize the significance of getting them involved in the process right from the script-writing.

Explaining why this is needed, Xu says: "We need to figure out what we can do or cannot do while turning words into a visible world."