Creating 3D Effects for Film, TV, and Games

Rating:
Summary: A View From the Top
Review: Much of the material published on digital special effects falls into three categories:
First is the stuff that comes with the software package - usually written at the last minute and in a real hurry so that the company can start selling the software.
Second is the stuff from outsiders who write the how to use this software kind of books. They're better because the writers are better and have at least some idea of what they are trying to do.
Finally there are the 'this is the way we did it on some movie or game.' Better yet, because this is not tied to one single software package.

What's missing is that in real life it works the other way. You or your boss determines what is needed and then it's up to you go produce the effect. What software is best for that task? How does it fit in with the rest of the production? Perhaps more important, how do you get that job in the first place.

David Santiago got into this business first getting degrees and then becoming interested in the theater, then he moved into Cgi. As such he understands the process better than most. And this book really concentrates on the process itself, not the nuts and bolts of how to use this particular software package to make an explosion or whatever is needed.

Along with his comments he presents several interviews with senior people who are in charge of creating the special effects in, mostly, movies; but also some other fields.