Starship Troopers, a 1997 sci-fi film directed by Paul Verhoeven, continues to receive praise for its visual effects years after its release. The film, set in a fascist future where humans battle giant alien bugs, features a star-studded cast including Casper Van Dien, Denise Richards, Dina Meyer, and Jake Busey.
Recently, a visual effects team known as the Corridor Crew shared their admiration for the effects in Starship Troopers, particularly highlighting the intricate texture detail on the models and the impressive use of CG. They were particularly impressed by the gasoline explosion scene, which they noted as one of the largest on-screen gasoline explosions in film history at the time of the movie's release.
Despite being a box office flop initially, with a production budget of $105 million and earnings of $54.8 million, Starship Troopers has since gained a cult following. The film's enduring appeal lies in its groundbreaking visual effects that have stood the test of time.
Starship Troopers' influence extends beyond the realm of cinema, as evidenced by the visual inspiration it provided for the video game Helldivers 2. Released in 2024, Helldivers 2 is a cooperative third-person shooter that draws thematic parallels to the sci-fi classic.
One of the standout achievements of Starship Troopers is the monumental gasoline explosion sequence, which held the record for the largest explosion in film for nearly two decades. This feat is particularly remarkable considering the advancements in CGI technology during that period.
As a cult classic, Starship Troopers continues to captivate audiences with its futuristic narrative and groundbreaking visual effects. The film's enduring legacy is a testament to its impact on the sci-fi genre and its ability to inspire future creative endeavors.
