Cinematic in Virtual Production

Cinematic is a Real-Time Engine term in filmmaking. In virtual production, the nuances of this term take on special meaning. Here, we break down the definition to give you a starting point.

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Basic Definition:

What is Cinematic in virtual production?

A non-interactive animation sequence in an otherwise interactive experience as referred to in real-time engines. Also called a cutscene.

Cutscenes can be used for a variety of purposes in gaming, such as providing backstory, introducing characters, explaining how a level works, or creating dramatic tension or cliffhangers. 

Cinematics, or cutscenes, are typically produced using video game engine technology which enables them to be created in real-time and experienced interactively. This differs from traditional filmmaking in that it allows viewers to explore and experience these sequences with their own actions. This type of cinematic offers more immersion than standard film by allowing players to move around the environment while they watch the story unfold.  

Cinematic storytelling has been embraced by many popular gaming titles including Last of Us 2. and The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, both of which use powerful graphics and interactive elements to draw players into the narrative. Furthermore, this technique has also been adopted by blockbuster films like Ready Player One and Avatar where filmmakers merge live-action and CGI effects to produce impressive experiences that blend reality and fantasy. 

Cinematic techniques give developers greater freedom when creating content for video games and movies. By taking advantage of advancements in computing power, motion capture systems and visual effects tools, filmmakers can craft unique narratives that bring worlds to life in ways never before imagined.