Cutscene in Virtual Production

Cutscene 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 Cutscene in virtual production?

A cutscene, sometimes known as a cinematic, is an animation sequence in an interactive experience that serves to move the story forward. Put simply, it's like the film version of pausing gameplay: providing a bridge between actionable moments and narrative-driven events. In virtual production, these sequences can be used for various reasons, such as introducing characters or telling backstory. 

For example, imagine a game where two protagonists are locked in battle on the top of a skyscraper. A cutscene would then play to transition from this scene to a different location – perhaps a dive bar somewhere in town. This enables the players to continue with their adventure while keeping them interested and engaged with the story. Cutscenes also provide filmmakers with opportunities to create unique visuals that drive home specific points. 

Film has been using cutscenes since its inception, though they've become increasingly prevalent in recent years thanks to advances in technology. One particularly memorable example can be found in 2008's Iron Man: when Tony Stark encounters Obadiah Stane at his headquarters, he is shocked to find himself surrounded by holograms of past superheroic figures—a moment made possible through the use of a well-executed cutscene. 

A good example of how someone might use a cutscene in virtual production is through 3D environments. By creating a series of animations with pre-determined camera angles that transition into each other, filmmakers can create immersive scenes that draw viewers deeper into the narrative. Additionally, these types of animations can help fill out complex locations by showing off more details than could be achieved through live action. For instance, if the set design is too detailed to capture in one take, filmmakers can break it down into sections, animate them individually, and then assemble them together later.

All in all, cutscenes are essential tools for both video games and films alike, allowing creators to tell stories with more impact and finesse than ever before. Whether you’re playing a thrilling shoot ‘em up or watching a gripping sci-fi blockbuster, chances are good that some sort of cutscene will be there to break up the action and propel your entertainment forward.