Georges Méliès was a French filmmaker and illusionist, born on December 8, 1861. He is best known for his pioneering work in early cinema, particularly in the genre of fantasy and science fiction. Méliès created over 500 films between 1896 and 1913, using innovative techniques such as stop-motion, multiple exposures, and hand-painted color. One of his most famous films is A Trip to the Moon (1902), which features imaginative visuals and storytelling. Méliès is often referred to as the "father of special effects" for his creative use of tricks and illusions, significantly influencing the development of modern filmmaking.