heat ripples or mirage FX in AE?

[Flicker Pictures]

I don't have After Effects yet (soon!) but was wondering if there was a heat effect, like the ripples you see from a mirage on a super hot day. I'll need a filter that will warp and distort the shot as if we're looking through heat waves.

I'd like these shots to feel like they're on fire, melting from the heat http://www.indietalk.com/blog.php?b=250

Thanks!

 

[wheatgrinder]

that's well within the capabilities of AE. No problem.

see this tut
http://ae.tutsplus.com/tutorials/vfx/ignite-a-sizzlin-hot-fire-burst/

 

[Flicker Pictures]

good to know, thanks.

 

[Anim8]

Turbulent Displace in AE will get you 80% there.