Selects is a Editorial 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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The term "selects" refers to the performance(s) or take(s) chosen for further usage in editorial or visual effects development. Selects can include live-action footage as well as motion capture performances. In virtual production, selects represent an essential component of crafting a truly compelling story, as they are integral to creating believable and realistic characters.
Selects must be carefully considered by experienced producers, directors, and editors who understand what works best for the audience. When selecting takes from all available footage, these professionals must look at individual performance elements (i.e., emotion, timing, and dialogue delivery) and overall scene context (i.e., blocking, set design, lighting). Once the selections have been made, those same individuals must then make sure that the chosen shots fit together within the final cut to achieve the desired emotional impact.
Famous movies include Avatar, Star Wars: The Last Jedi, and Blade Runner 2049. heavily relied on meticulous selection processes when it came to crafting their visuals. For example, it took James Cameron and his team over two years to curate several thousand hours of raw material and select only one hundred for inclusion in Avatar! This careful approach enabled the filmmakers to create a breathtakingly real world filled with remarkable characters whose arcs demanded attention and admiration.
In conclusion, selects are an invaluable asset in virtual production; they enable creators to shape the narrative meaningfully while still achieving cinematic excellence. By considering each performance element and overall scene context, filmmakers can ensure that their movies contain compelling characters whose stories will stick with audiences long after the credits roll.