3D animation has become an integral part of the entertainment industry, from movies to video games. But when did it all start? The history of 3D animation dates back to the late 1960s and early 1970s when computer scientists began exploring the possibilities of animating in 3D for larger projects. The first realistic human hands and faces on wireframed digital rigs were created by designers Edwin Catmull and Frederic Parke, who would later co-found Pixar.

As the cinematic industry began to rise between 1895 and 1920, several animation techniques were invented or newly developed, including stop-motion with objects, puppets, clay or cutouts, and drawn or painted animation. However, it wasn’t until the mid-1990s that 3D animation became a game-changer with the release of Toy Story, the first full-length 3D animated film by Pixar Studios. The film’s human-like quality and breathtaking visuals revolutionized the industry and set a new standard for 3D animation.

Early Beginnings of 3D Animation

1960s – The Birth of Computer Graphics

The early beginnings of 3D animation can be traced back to the 1960s when computer graphics were first invented. In 1961, Ivan Sutherland, a computer scientist, created the first computer graphics program called Sketchpad. This program allowed users to create simple drawings on a computer screen using a light pen. It was a breakthrough in the world of computer graphics and paved the way for more advanced programs in the future.

1970s – Advancements in Computer Graphics

Throughout the 1970s, computer scientists continued to work on improving computer graphics technology. In 1972, Ed Catmull, a computer scientist, created the first 3D computer-animated film called “A Computer Animated Hand.” The film was a short clip of a hand that was created using wireframe animation.

In 1974, Catmull and his team at the New York Institute of Technology created the first 3D computer-animated film with a plot called “The Adventures of André and Wally B.” The film featured a character named André who was being chased by a bee named Wally B.

1980s – The First 3D Animated Film

The 1980s saw the first 3D animated feature film, “Toy Story,” released in 1995 by Pixar Animation Studios. Pixar was founded in 1979 by Edwin Catmull, Alvy Ray Smith, and Steve Jobs. The film was a huge success and paved the way for many more 3D animated films to come.

In conclusion, the early beginnings of 3D animation can be traced back to the 1960s when computer graphics were first invented. Throughout the 1970s, computer scientists continued to work on improving computer graphics technology, which led to the creation of the first 3D computer-animated films. The 1980s saw the release of the first 3D animated feature film, “Toy Story,” which was a huge success and paved the way for many more 3D animated films to come.

The Rise of 3D Animation in the 1990s

The 1990s saw a significant rise in the use of 3D animation in the entertainment industry. It was a decade of experimentation and innovation, with filmmakers and animators pushing the boundaries of what was possible with computer-generated imagery (CGI).

1990 – The Release of Pixar’s First Film

In 1990, Pixar released their first short film, “Tin Toy,” which won an Academy Award for Best Animated Short Film. This marked the beginning of a new era in animation, as Pixar continued to develop their groundbreaking technology and storytelling techniques.

1995 – Toy Story Revolutionizes Animation

In 1995, Pixar released “Toy Story,” the first feature-length film to be entirely computer-animated. The film was a critical and commercial success, grossing over $360 million worldwide. It revolutionized the animation industry, proving that 3D animation could be just as engaging and entertaining as traditional hand-drawn animation.

1998 – DreamWorks’ Antz and A Bug’s Life Compete

In 1998, DreamWorks released “Antz,” a computer-animated film about the life of an ant colony. The film was a critical and commercial success, grossing over $170 million worldwide. However, it faced stiff competition from Pixar’s “A Bug’s Life,” which was released just a few weeks later. Both films were well-received by audiences and critics, showcasing the growing popularity and potential of 3D animation.

Overall, the 1990s were a pivotal decade for 3D animation, with filmmakers and animators exploring new techniques and technologies to push the boundaries of what was possible in animation. With the success of films like “Toy Story,” “Antz,” and “A Bug’s Life,” it became clear that 3D animation was here to stay, and would continue to play an important role in the entertainment industry for years to come.

The 2000s and Beyond

The 2000s saw a significant rise in the popularity of 3D animation. The technology had advanced to a point where it was becoming more accessible to filmmakers and animation studios. The 2000s also saw the emergence of 3D animation in television and video games.

2001 – Shrek Wins the First Animated Feature Oscar

In 2001, the Academy Awards introduced the Best Animated Feature category. Shrek, a 3D animated film produced by DreamWorks Animation, won the first-ever award in this category. Shrek was a massive success and went on to spawn three sequels, a spin-off, and a musical.

2003 – Finding Nemo Breaks Box Office Records

Finding Nemo, a 3D animated film produced by Pixar Animation Studios, was released in 2003 and went on to become a massive box office success. It broke records for the highest-grossing animated film of all time and won the Best Animated Feature Oscar in 2004. Finding Nemo was praised for its stunning visuals and heartwarming story.

2010s – The Emergence of 3D Animation in Television and Video Games

The 2010s saw the emergence of 3D animation in television and video games. Shows like Avatar: The Last Airbender and Star Wars: The Clone Wars used 3D animation to bring their worlds to life. Video games like Assassin’s Creed and Call of Duty also began using 3D animation to create immersive gaming experiences.

Overall, the 2000s and beyond saw a significant rise in the popularity of 3D animation. With advancements in technology, 3D animation became more accessible to filmmakers and animation studios, leading to some of the most beloved animated films and television shows of the past two decades.