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MPC has posted a visual effects breakdown video for their extensive CG work done in the film X-Men: First Class. Watch it on MPC's website.

Maxwell Render suite version 2.6 is out and full of new features. Some of the prominent improvements and additions include: (more...)

Jeff Patton has compiled a list of frequently asked questions in regards to Iray and GPU rendering. Read more at Jeff's site.

Nick Ryan has directed and produced an impressive CGI filled short film called The German. Watch the full 10 minute film on Vimeo as well as the shot break downs.

New features in the latest version of EnRichPro's plugin for adding dirt and aging effects to your models include: support for V-Ray 2.0, direct writing to V-Ray render elements, enhanced default radius, enhanced default colors (when combining several RichDirt effects this often saves 20 mouse clicks per material), free version now allows for inner occlusion of up to 30000 pixels (for both Mental Ray and V-Ray), etc. Read more on EnRichPro's website.

Laurent Renaud has released a script that allows users to easily setup the destruction of objects. Download and read more about it at Laurent's website.

French studio Mikros Image created a great channel ID for Canal+. Watch it on YouTube.

KABOOM is a free and easy to use tool that allows users to create dynamic explosions. It has been updated to work with MassFX. Download it from Laurent Renaud's website.

Many great things are to be said about ILM's work on the Star Wars movies but a lot has been left unsaid about their more present work. These two books offer a look into both the original effects done on the Star Wars films as well as the most current CGI being created by ILM's artists. Read the full article on FX Guide.

Digital Domain gives insight on a commercial spot produced for Sony's 3D home entertainment products. The commercial contains live footage blended seamlessly into a CG environment. View the videos and read the article at CG Arena.