George Méliès was a French filmmaker and illusionist, born on December 8, 1861. He is best known for his pioneering work in the early days of cinema, particularly in the genre of fantasy and science fiction. Méliès created over 500 films, with his most famous work being A Trip to the Moon (1902), which showcased innovative special effects and imaginative storytelling. Méliès was a key figure in the development of narrative film and is often referred to as the "father of special effects." He utilized techniques such as stop-motion, double exposure, and time-lapse photography to create magical scenes. His contributions laid the groundwork for future filmmakers and the evolution of the film industry.