History of 3D Animation

The Boeing Man

Jan 1, 1966

This wireframe drawing was used in pilot modelling to test a pilot's ability to reach the aircraft's instruments. Drawn by William Allan Fetter, this was acted as a 3D representation of a human. William also worked for Boeing using computers to animate and design models.

3D Modelling

Jan 1, 1972

3D human face modelling created by Frederic Parke.

Futureworld

Jan 1, 1976

First major film to use CGI (computer generated images) that featured 3D human hands and faces. Created by Edwin Catmull and Frederic Parke.

Star Wars IV: A New Hope

Jan 1, 1977

In Star Wars, George Lucas used 3D graphics in order to enhance the film. The success of this use of 3D graphics increased the popularity of 3D graphics in cinemas.

Tron

Jan 1, 1982

Tron started development in 1976 and was finally released in 1982. This movie contained extensive computer animation.

Sexy Robot

Jul 1, 1985

This was one of the first CG television advertisements which featured a robot-like character made of shiny metal that behaved and moved like a human. This commercial sparked world-wide recognition for 3D animation and its use in advertisement.

Terminator 2

Jan 1, 1991

Revolutionary special effects with ground-breaking computer graphics and visual images.

Jurassic Park

Jan 1, 1993

This movie featured incredibly realistic dinosaurs that inspired George Lucas to do further work on Star Wars.

Toy Story

Jan 1, 1995

First feature full length 3D animated movie in 1995.

Super Mario 64

Jun 1, 1996

Nintendo revolutionizes 3D animation in video games by creating the first succesful 3D platformer that featured a dynamic camera. This camera is used today even in games like Monster Hunter and Assassin's Creed.

Titanic

Nov 1, 1997

In 1997, Titanic was released. This plays a part in 3D animation history as it features hundreds of realistic people created digitally.

Star Wars I: The Phantom of the Menace

Jan 1, 1999

Large number of shots 3D graphically enhanced. Was able to show realistic aliens and fantasy/ sci-fi backgrounds and scenery.

Skyrim

Nov 11, 2011

Skyrim is an example of how far we have come in 3D graphics and animation. The graphics, quality, detail adn textures used in Skyrim are mindblowing. When comparing the graphics in this as opposed to Super Mario 64 or other 3D games, we can really see how far we have come in such a short time.