Machinima

Unlike traditional animation techniques that use specialized 3D animation software, machinima --a term derived from the words ""machine"" and ""cinema""--records the action in real-time interactive 3D environments, such as those found in video games, to create a cinematic production. No longer solely the province of hard-core gamers, machinima has become central to the convergence between animation, television, and film, but retains its own identity as a unique media format. It has evolved quickly within massive multi-player gaming and virtual platforms such as Second Life, The Sims, World of Warcraft, and virtual worlds under development. These interviews, essays, and discussions with leading machinima producers, reviewers, performers, and advocates discuss scripting basics, character development, and set design, as well as tips on crafting machinima through creative use of sound, lighting, and post-production. Aimed at beginning or intermediate machinima storytellers, this is an informative and useful overview of an emerging art form.

"in-depth look at many aspects of the world of machinima. Recommended"--Choice; "one of the best and most interesting books on machinima currently available"--Renderosity; "gathers essays and interviews highlighting technical aspects of machinima"--Reference & Research Book News.

Phylis Johnson is an associate professor and former chairperson of the Radio-Television Department at Southern Illinois University, Carbondale. Donald Pettit is a freelance photographer and videographer, and the CEO of Lowe Runo Productions, a media company that features machinima and video production.