The Evolution of CGI and Its Influence on Storytelling

As a film director, I have had the privilege to observe and partake in the revolutionary evolution of Computer-Generated Imagery (CGI). It is an understatement to say that this technology has entirely transformed the canvas on which we paint our stories. The dawn of CGI can be traced back to the early 1970s, but it was groundbreaking films like Jurassic Park and Toy Story in the mid-90s that truly showcased the potential of this technology.

1. The Evolution of CGI and Its Influence
on Storytelling
As a film director, I have had the privilege to observe and partake in the revolutionary evolution
of Computer-Generated Imagery (CGI). It is an understatement to say that this technology has
entirely transformed the canvas on which we paint our stories. The dawn of CGI can be traced
back to the early 1970s, but it was groundbreaking films like Jurassic Park and Toy Story in the
mid-90s that truly showcased the potential of this technology.
The Birth of New Realms
Before CGI, there were limits to what could be visually created for the big screen. There was
certainly no shortage of genius filmmakers and imaginative storylines, but the reality was that
some visuals were simply too dangerous, costly, or downright impossible to film. However, with
the advent of CGI, we could create entire worlds that existed only in our imaginations. It
expanded the horizons of creativity, giving birth to new genres and subgenres of movies.
Fantasy and science fiction movies, in particular, were catapulted to new heights, becoming
more immersive and visually captivating than ever before.
Transcending the Visual
As profound as the visual revolution was, the influence of CGI extends far beyond the realm of
aesthetics. CGI also transformed the narrative structures of movies. As directors, it offered us
an entirely new toolbox for storytelling. With the ability to create anything we could imagine, we
began developing complex storylines that required CGI to fully articulate the narrative. For

2. instance, epic battles involving thousands of characters, destructive natural disasters, or even
the simple act of a superhero taking flight, all became possible and believable with CGI.
A New Cast of Characters
In addition to enhancing the visual and narrative aspects of filmmaking, CGI provided us with
the exciting ability to create characters who were completely digital. This opened up a world of
possibilities for a more diverse range of characters, including aliens, talking animals, and
mythical creatures. These characters, which would have been challenging, if not impossible, to
portray using traditional methods, are now integral parts of the story, adding depth and variety to
the narrative.
The Double-Edged Sword of CGI
That said, the use of CGI is a double-edged sword. While it has undoubtedly expanded the
storytelling capabilities of filmmakers, it has also led to an over-reliance on visual spectacle,
often at the expense of character development and narrative depth. As directors, we must
constantly remind ourselves that special effects alone do not make a compelling story. A movie
still needs well-developed characters and a solid storyline to be truly engaging.
The Future of Storytelling
Despite its potential pitfalls, there is no denying the profound impact CGI has had on
storytelling. It has forever transformed the way stories are told and consumed, and its evolution
is far from over. As we continue to explore the vast possibilities of this technology, we look
forward to an exciting future for the world of cinema. CGI has not only changed our approach to
filmmaking, but it has also redefined our understanding of what is possible in the realm of
storytelling.
Written by Mark Murphy Director