3D with a Twist
Ever since 3D animation took
over movie screens, animators,
technicians, and tool vendors
have pushed the medium to
become more and more realistic
through complex lighting, simula-
tions, rendering, and more — the
hallmark of CGI. Now, however,
these groups are working just as
diligently to manipulate CGI into a
stylized 2D aesthetic. And, that is
no easy feat!
Here, we examine three re-
cent CG animated features that
pushed 3D animation into the
hand-drawn realm, each resulting
in their own stylized look: Luca,
from Disney•Pixar; The Mitchells
vs. The Machines, developed by
Sony Pictures Animation; and
Spirit Untamed, presented by
DreamWorks Animation.
— Karen Moltenbrey
Luca contains a 2D cartoon aesthetic.
The Mitchells vs. The Machines combines various animation styles.
Spirit Untamed embraces a hybrid style.
