PRACTICAL
EFFECTS
documentaries made by humans
The Wilhelm Scream
(winter 2025)
This crowd-funded short documentary tells the true story of the "Wilhelm Scream" sound effect that has shown up in hundreds of movies, television shows, video games and commercials over the past seventy years.
The Wilhelm Scream was made over the course of two years and premiered at the legendary Cleveland Film Festival.
It screened at 13 festivals in 2025 and won a jury award at the Sidewalk Film Festival. The film is now on YouTube with over 100K views and counting.
The Vintage Computer Festival
(summer 2025)
Retro tech enthusiasts come together each year at the Vintage Computer Festival in Wall Township, New Jersey. We talk to the people who keep old computers alive to understand their deeper connections with their machines.
The Reptile Expo
(coming soon)
We explore the community of reptile enthusiasts at the White Plains Reptile Expo. How do reptiles and humans connect? Is there a "reptile owner" type?
Do reptiles experience emotion and personal bonds?
THE TEAM
Practical Effects is a team of filmmakers based in New York City.
We make documentary films that blend journalism and art.
​​​​​​​​​ANNA QUINLAN Director / Editor / Colorist / Animator
Anna is a filmmaker and artist originally from Birmingham, AL. She's worked as a documentary editor for over 10 years and has been published by The New Yorker and National Geographic. In 2024 she completed her directorial debut "The Wilhelm Scream". Anna loves savory foods, UK garage, and her chihuahua Sloane.
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MAX MUELLER Director / Cinematographer / Editor
Max is a filmmaker and artist originally from Northampton, MA. He works as an independent documentary director, cinematographer and editor. His films have screened at SXSW, Camden International Film Festival, Hot Docs, Sidewalk Film Fest and have been selected as a Vimeo Staff Pick. Max loves a good diner, getting his mind blown, and his cat Remi.
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IAN PRITCHARD Composer / Photographer
Ian is a musician and photographer originally from Philadelphia, PA. He toured the country playing in bands before working in the music industry for the past 8 years. His photos have been shown in exhibitions in the US, South Korea, and Italy. He has a YouTube channel, Collector//Emitter, where he demos guitar effects. Ian loves a nice cup of tea, science fiction, and Dungeons & Dragons.​​​