Introduction of computer-generated imagery (CGI) The use of computer animation in film dates back to the early 1980s, with the films Tron (1982) and Golgo 13: The Professional (1983). Since the 1990s, a profound innovation in special effects has been the development of computer-generated imagery (CGI), which has changed nearly every aspect of motion picture special effects. Digital compositing allows far more control and creative freedom than optical compositing, and does not degrade the image as with analogue (optical) processes. Digital imagery has enabled technicians to create detailed models, matte "paintings," and even fully realised characters with the malleability of computer software.
introductIon of CompUteR-GeNeraTeD iMaGeRy (cgi) the use of coMPuter AnImATion in FiLm dateS Back TO tHe eaRly 1980S With thE fiLMs troN (1982) anD golgo 13 the PRofeSsiOnAl (1983) sInCE tHe 1990s a pRofOunD iNnOvation in SpeCiaL effectS hAs BEeN The develoPMENt of cOMPuteR-generated IMagerY (CGi) wHicH Has CHangeD nearly every aSpeCt Of motion picTure spEcial EfFeCts digItaL composItiNg allows Far mOrE controL and creatiVE FreEdom tHan oPtIcAl compoSiting aND dOEs nOt degradE thE IMage as with aNAloguE (opTical) pRoCesSEs dIgITal imAGEry has enableD tECHnICIanS tO create DetaIlEd MODElS MAtte "pAiNtings" ANd even fULly rEAlised CHaractErS WITh the maLlEAbIliTy of Computer sOFtwarE