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The HowTo Behind Avatar

There's a HowTo behind everything, including the astounding, just released 3-D Avatar. Reviews across the board agree with one thing: the film is visually breathtaking. PopSci explains the technology behind the filmmaking.

Close-up of a blue-skinned character's eye with intricate facial markings."...James Cameron decided nearly a decade ago to film his humans-versus-aliens sci-fi adventure Avatar in 3-D, but he refused to start production until technology could convince the viewer that he or she could step through the screen and pick up a bow alongside the Na'vi, the film's 10-foot-tall, blue, cat-faced alien protagonists.

To give scenes realistic depth, Cameron and camera whizzes Vince Pace and Patrick Campbell, built the Pace/Cameron Fusion Camera System to capture images the same way as a human eye does. Cameron then used a virtual camera to walk—or fly—around in the virtual world to record any shot of the Na'vi that he wanted and combined that with the real-life footage..."

Click through for PopSci's breakdown on making a realistic 3-D film, as well as an interview with James Cameron.

(More Q&A with Cameron via today's New York Times).

Apple's iOS 26 and iPadOS 26 updates are packed with new features, and you can try them before almost everyone else. First, check Gadget Hacks' list of supported iPhone and iPad models, then follow the step-by-step guide to install the iOS/iPadOS 26 beta — no paid developer account required.

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