Filters in flash is used to add visual effects(animate) flash movie quickly.

Video Tutorial:

The above video teaches you how to use Filter Effects for animating visually in flash.

• These can be used for three types of symbols that are "Buttons", "Movie clips", "Graphics".
• Drag and drop a symbol from the library window.
• First press "F8" to get the "Convert to symbol" screen.
• Simply choose the type of the symbol as "Movie Clip".
• Now using the "Filter" option in the Properties window apply the required field.
• By clicking on the "+" easily add the required filters from the list.
• Drop shadow, Blur, Glow, Bevel, Gradient Glow, Gradient Bevel, Adjust
  Color are available effects in Flash.
• When a particular option is chosen, the appropriate properties are displayed.
• Increase or decrease the properties for each of this filters to suit your needs.