Abstract

Keywords: Synthespian, digital double, acting, performance, animation, motion capture, vactor

This paper is an attempt to formalise definitions of different types of performance common to computer-generated (CG) characters in feature films, and to create a taxonomy of modes of performance among these characters. Terms such as a “virtual actors” (vactors), “synthespians”, and “digital doubles” are frequently, but incorrectly, used interchangeably due to a lack of established definitions. What is the relationship of these terms to each other, and how should they be understood from both technological and performancebased perspectives? By articulating clear definitions for these terms, it is possible to theorise a variety of performance types specific to CG characters in feature films. These categories provide an expanded understanding of how performance is created among CG characters, and draws into question whether classic examples of synthespians are really synthespians at all.

• Jason Kennedy is a senior lecturer and Animation Pathway Leader in the Digital Design department at Auckland University of Technology, New Zealand. He is a practicing artist with work in 3D animation, 3D Fine Art, video projection, and fine jewellery. Jason is currently working on his PhD, which examines how our understanding of acting changes in light of modern animation and performance capture practices. In addition to being an animator, Jason is also an actor, and he draws on these two areas of experience to create his thesis.

Full text (PDF) p. 297-305