{"version":"1.0","type":"rich","provider_name":"Acast","provider_url":"https://acast.com","height":250,"width":700,"html":"<iframe src=\"https://embed.acast.com/$/66904d907356c01be8c91689/67b8ffa019249d0c1ac60ebd?\" frameBorder=\"0\" width=\"700\" height=\"250\"></iframe>","title":"Episode 02 - The History of Visual Effects","thumbnail_width":200,"thumbnail_height":200,"thumbnail_url":"https://open-images.acast.com/shows/66904d907356c01be8c91689/1740426475786-c8efcb04-0f0b-4601-a4bb-b7a8c8289fbe.jpeg?height=200","description":"<p>From the magical trick photography of Georges Méliès to the groundbreaking innovations of films like Jurassic Park and The Matrix, we unravel the milestones that shaped the industry.</p><p><br></p><p>Discover the pioneers who redefined what was possible on screen, the ingenious techniques that brought fantastical worlds to life, and the evolution of tools that made the impossible a reality.</p><p><br></p><p>Whether you’re a seasoned pro or simply curious about the magic behind the movies, this episode is packed with fascinating insights, heartwarming anecdotes, and plenty of nostalgia.</p><p><br></p><h3><br></h3><h3>Here is where to find us: <a href=\"https://linktr.ee/pixelpuzzlepodcast\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\">https://linktr.ee/pixelpuzzlepodcast</a></h3><p><br></p><h3><br></h3><h3>Pivotal Moments in VFX History</h3><p>During the episode, Ian and David discussed several landmark films that revolutionised the industry. Here’s a closer look at some of these films, along with curated resources to explore further:</p><ul><li><strong>“Tron” (1982)</strong> – One of the first films to use extensive CGI, even though it was disqualified from the Best Visual Effects category at the Oscars for “cheating.”</li><li><a href=\"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sbgHMrLPQrE\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\">Full Documentary: The Making of Tron</a></li><li><strong>“Jurassic Park” (1993)</strong> – Pioneered the seamless blend of practical and digital effects, setting a new standard for realism.</li><li><a href=\"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8r01mk6F_Pk\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\">The Making of Jurassic Park</a></li><li><strong>“The Matrix” (1999)</strong> – Introduced bullet-time photography and elevated digital compositing.</li><li><a href=\"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=McK1QXXNfG0\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\">How The Matrix Changed Cinema</a></li></ul><h3><br></h3><h3>A Brief History of CGI</h3><p>During the conversation, David mentioned sharing more on the evolution of CGI. Here’s a quick overview:</p><ul><li>The early use of CGI in <em>Westworld</em> (1973) and <em>Futureworld</em> (1976).</li><li>How <em>Star Wars</em> (1977) utilised computer-generated imagery for wireframe models in the trench run sequence.</li><li>The transition from wireframe to photorealistic CGI with <em>The Abyss</em> (1989) and <em>Terminator 2</em> (1991).</li></ul><p>For those interested in diving deeper:</p><ul><li><a href=\"https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLLkEG1hv_KwIbvt7DdD4t0QdbMbPsyTbt&amp;si=UM6yoh3Qfus6H0Fp\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\">The Full History of CGI</a></li></ul><p><br></p><h3>Bonus Content: Hidden Gems of VFX</h3><p>For those eager to explore more, here are a few lesser-known but influential films that utilised VFX in innovative ways:</p><ul><li><strong>“The Fountain” (2006)</strong> – Used micro-photography instead of CGI to create cosmic visuals.</li><li><strong>“Children of Men” (2006)</strong> – Masterful blending of practical effects and CGI to create seamless long takes.</li><li><strong>“Ex Machina” (2014)</strong> – Subtle and effective use of digital effects to enhance character design and environment.</li></ul><h2><br></h2><h3>Additional Learning Resources</h3><h3><br></h3><h3>Books:</h3><ul><li><strong><em>“The Invisible Art: The Legends of Movie Matte Painting”</em></strong> by Mark Cotta Vaz</li><li><strong><em>“CG 101: A Computer Graphics Industry Reference”</em></strong> by Terrence Masson</li></ul><h3><br></h3><h3>Podcasts:</h3><ul><li><a href=\"https://www.youtube.com/@TheVFXShow\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"><em>The VFX Show</em></a> – Insightful discussions on visual effects in current films and TV shows.</li><li><a href=\"https://www.youtube.com/@beforesmag\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"><em>Befores &amp; Afters</em></a> – Hosted by Ian Failes, offering behind-the-scenes insights from industry professionals.</li></ul>","author_name":"David Cordon"}