Say Hello to the VP (Virtual Production)

As technology makes advancements, we can find expect it to spread across industries and in Film, new technologies are changing the game. Say hello to Virtual Productions!

What is a Virtual Production? Basically, it’s the intersection of the digital and real life. You may not be aware but we’ve seen a lot of VP already! ‘Planet of the Apes’, ‘Avatar’, and most recently, The Mandalorian.

Weta Digital says,

It lets directors work on a mocap stage, but view a virtual environment and characters. Virtual production has been around for years (an early version was used in The Fellowship of the Ring), but Avatar was the pivotal moment. James Cameron wanted to direct live actors on the mocap stage, but view their performances in the Pandora environment.

With specialized software and equipment, we can shave hundreds of hours watching effects in realtime and in camera, on the spot. For a simple breakdown, watch the video below.

Today, most virtual productions are done using Epic Games Unreal Engine. It’s real-time rendering capabilities make all of this possible. You can view things from a tablet, your phone or any external monitor. You can bring characters to life right in front of your eyes.

And what’s most amazing is that Unreal Engine is FREE. Of course only if your a student or an indie developer (earnings up to $100k) but definitely free to learn. They also have an amazing learning platform: here. So if Virtual Production interests you, definitely go and check it out!

For more information you can also check out the Virtual Production Field Guide.