- James Cameron scripted Avatar back in 1994 and said "every single science fiction book" he read as a kid" were key to his inspiration for this film.
- The production for the film was based upon new technology as Cameron announced after filming Titanic that he would make use of "synthetic" or computer-generated actors. This technology would appeal to the younger generation and a wide audience of film fans, setting the bench mark for future 3D films.
- Visual effects house Digital Domain helped with the production stages working in synergy with the film as Cameron is a partner in the company. This is an example of Media Ownership and the advantages it has in providing help.
Filming and Special Effects
- Cameron's own Reality Camera System was used to film in 3D and this involved two HD cameras within one structure creating 'depth perception'. This high quality filming offers dynamic graphics appealing to the audience as it offers a full experience.
- Cameron's aim was to appeal to the audience in creating 'an utterly immersive, entirely believable 3-D experience' with the equipment he had access to, EMPIRE reported in their Avatar special.
- Avatar follows in the footsteps of 3D films such as 'My Bloody Valentine' and 'Monsters and Aliens' that have become big successes, so the 3D phenomenon guaranteed to be a success and attract a wide audience.
The link below provides information on the filming of Avatar, and also the rise of 3D that has been seen in present times and the appeal.
http://http//www.guardian.co.uk/film/2009/aug/20/james-cameron-avatar-3d-film
It took many years to reach the production stages. Cameron explained that this was due to waiting for the technology to become advanced as he know quality was important to film fans.
Motion-capture animation technologies were used to create realistic computer-generated characters to create a believable and captivating story. With this, the audience could become more involved within the story as they go on a journey with these characters.
The new virtual camera used by Cameron allowed him to see the actors' motions interact with the digital world on a monitor. He could then make live adjustments. This is an example of the impact of New Technologies in the film industry.
- Avatar was filmed in 3D at 24 frames per second.
- "The Volume"-a motion-capture six times larger than any used before was used to capture the actors' performance and facial expressions more clearly adding to .
- These technologies enabled the film to look more convincing which was a main aim for Cameron as he said to EMPIRE magazine, "It had to look totally convincing. You can't fool people". Audiences reactions and appeal were important to director Cameron when it came to the filming.
- However, the appeal that Avatar has is not just down to the special effects as Cameron is keen to stress that his aim is not to 'bamboozle and distract viewers' but also because of the storyline. The film finds a balance between special effects and story-telling which both add to audience satisfaction.
The budget for the production of this film was estimated at roughly £172 million and is one of the most expensive films of all time. This has created a hype amongst the UK and has made Avatar a must-see movie. Due to the high level of production, the audience know that it is likely to be an enjoyable film and this hype, much like the hype of the recent film 'Paranormal Activity' has created a buzz amongst the UK.
Posted by Michael
