Greetings,

Bill Nighy, acclaimed British actor, has given us cause to talk about CGI, that is computer generated imagery.

The character Davy Jones, half squid, is far from recognizable regarding his former human state, but still acquires an authentic and ghastly persona, thanks to Bill Nighy's voice acting.

For those of us who aren't scholars on the subject, here's what Wikipedia has to say about Computer Generated Imagery:

Computer-generated imagery (CGI) is the application of the field of computer graphics (or more specifically, 3D computer graphics) to special effects. CGI is used in movies, television programs and commercials, and in printed media. Video games most often use real-time computer graphics (rarely referred to as CGI), but may also include pre-rendered "cut scenes" and intro movies that would be typical CGI applications. These are referred to as FMV.

CGI is used for visual effects because the quality is higher and effects are more controllable than other more physically based processes, such as constructing miniatures for effects shots or hiring extras for crowd scenes, and because it allows the creation of images that would not be feasible using any other technology. It can also allow a single artist to produce content without the use of actors, expensive set pieces, or props.

Recent accessibility of CGI software and increased computer speeds has allowed individual artists and small companies to produce professional grade films, games, and fine art from their home computers. This has brought about an Internet subculture with its own set of global celebrities, clichés, and technical vocabulary.

Many movies incorporate CGI (computer generated imagery), including Jurassic Park, Toy Story, and the special effects in Forrest Gump.

CGI is quite the field, full of opportunity for voice actors. Have you ever been the voice of a computer generated image?

Cheers,

Stephanie