Experiments in the Use of Game Technology for Pre- Visualization

This overview paper outlines the value of real-time 3D engines for pre-visualization. Pre- visualization is a standard tool during pre-production of many modern film productions. First, the parallels between the two increasingly digitized technologies are discussed. Second, the paper outlines the special needs and problems posed by pre-visualization, and argues that animation control and camera control are the two main areas that need to be addressed. Finally, it presents a range of experiments that provide different practical approaches to these two core questions and utilize available game technology. The approach of these tests was to keep the rendering real-time – “liquid” – as long as possible. This follows original machinima-like production pipelines. Ultimately, the prototypes presented here illustrate the value of real-time game engines for pre-visualization as well as still prevailing limitations