- The Pixar Story (2007)
- Side by Side (2012)
- Industrial Light & Magic: Creating the Impossible (2010)
- VFX: The Art of Visual Effects (2015)
- The Making of 'Jurassic Park' (1993)
- The Story of Computer Graphics (1999)
- Weta Digital: The Art of Visual Effects (2016)
- The Art of Immersive (2014)
- The Making of 'The Matrix' (1999)
- The Effects of 'The Abyss' (1989)
Are you fascinated by the magic of computer-generated imagery (CGI) that brings fantastical worlds to life on the screen? This curated list of documentaries delves deep into the art and science of CGI, offering a behind-the-scenes look at how visual effects are crafted. From the early days of digital effects to the cutting-edge technology of today, these films provide a comprehensive exploration of CGI's evolution, its impact on storytelling, and the creative minds behind these visual marvels. Whether you're a film enthusiast, a budding VFX artist, or just curious about how your favorite movies are made, this collection will captivate and enlighten.
The Pixar Story (2007)
Description: This documentary chronicles the rise of Pixar Animation Studios, from its inception to becoming a powerhouse in CGI animation. It's a must-watch for understanding the evolution of CGI in storytelling.
Fact: The film includes interviews with key figures like Steve Jobs and John Lasseter, providing insider insights into Pixar's journey.
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Side by Side (2012)
Description: While not exclusively about CGI, this documentary discusses the transition from film to digital, including CGI's role in modern filmmaking. It features interviews with industry giants like James Cameron and David Fincher.
Fact: The film was directed by Christopher Kenneally, who also edited the documentary, providing a personal touch to the exploration of digital filmmaking.
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Industrial Light & Magic: Creating the Impossible (2010)
Description: A deep dive into the history of ILM, the company behind some of the most iconic visual effects in cinema, this documentary showcases the evolution of CGI through the lens of one of its pioneers.
Fact: The documentary includes rare footage from ILM's archives, giving viewers a unique look at the making of films like "Star Wars" and "Jurassic Park."
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VFX: The Art of Visual Effects (2015)
Description: This documentary explores the world of visual effects, showcasing how CGI has transformed the film industry. It features interviews with VFX artists and directors, offering a comprehensive look at the craft.
Fact: The film was produced by the Visual Effects Society, ensuring an authentic portrayal of the VFX industry.
30 Days Free The Making of 'Jurassic Park' (1993)
Description: This documentary focuses on the groundbreaking CGI used in "Jurassic Park," detailing how the film's visual effects team brought dinosaurs to life in a way never seen before.
Fact: It includes behind-the-scenes footage of the CGI process, showing the painstaking work that went into creating realistic dinosaurs.
30 Days Free The Story of Computer Graphics (1999)
Description: This documentary traces the history of computer graphics from its inception to its widespread use in film, offering a broad perspective on CGI's development.
Fact: It features interviews with pioneers in the field, including Ed Catmull, co-founder of Pixar.
30 Days Free Weta Digital: The Art of Visual Effects (2016)
Description: Focused on Weta Digital, this documentary showcases how the company has pushed the boundaries of CGI, particularly in films like "The Lord of the Rings" and "Avatar."
Fact: It includes exclusive interviews with Weta's VFX supervisors, offering insights into their creative process.
30 Days Free The Art of Immersive (2014)
Description: This documentary explores the use of CGI in creating immersive experiences, from video games to virtual reality, highlighting the technology's impact on storytelling.
Fact: It features discussions on the future of CGI in interactive media, making it particularly relevant for those interested in VR and AR.
30 Days Free The Making of 'The Matrix' (1999)
Description: While not solely about CGI, this documentary includes segments on how "The Matrix" utilized groundbreaking visual effects to create its iconic bullet time sequences and virtual worlds.
Fact: It provides a detailed look at the innovative techniques used to achieve the film's visual effects.
30 Days Free The Effects of 'The Abyss' (1989)
Description: This documentary focuses on the pioneering CGI work done for "The Abyss," one of the first films to extensively use computer-generated imagery for underwater scenes.
Fact: It includes interviews with James Cameron, who pushed the boundaries of what was possible with CGI at the time.
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