On the eve of SIGGRAPH 2007, Autodesk announced Toxik 2008, the latest version of its desktop software for feature film procedural compositing. Toxik has shaped numerous films, including PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN: AT WORLD'S END, APOCALYPTO and THE FOUNTAIN. Designed for visual effects artists, Toxik 2008 combines an extensive creative toolset with realtime, interactive compositing of high-dynamic-range imagery (HDRI).
Toxik 2008 is available as a stand-alone product on both the Windows and Linux operating systems. It offers greater interoperability with Autodesk Maya 3D modeling, animation and rendering software, thereby helping artists combine 2D and 3D techniques to solve complex production problems,
"The growing scale and complexity of computer-generated imagery in visual effects work is driving convergence between 2D and 3D pipelines," said Marc Petit, svp, Autodesk Media & Ent. "Transferring camera and rendering information from Maya to Toxik allows artists to make creative decisions in an interactive environment; in the context of live-action footage or computer-generated elements. This gives artists more freedom to experiment and allows them to quickly achieve the shot they want for their client."
With the latest technology in HDRI, Toxik 2008 gives users a greater dynamic range of exposures than traditional digital imaging techniques, accurately representing a wide range of intensity levels, ranging from direct sunlight to the deepest shadows. With the combination of realtime, interactive compositing of 2K, 4K and higher-resolution imagery, and a deep creative toolset, Toxik 2008 allows users to combine computer-generated and live-action footage to create compelling content for today's high-end films and television shows.
"During PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN: AT WORLD'S END, we used Toxik extensively alongside Flame for both prep work and full compositing of shots," said Phil Brennan, head of production at Post Asylum. "Toxik's Python scripting and Wiretap interface enabled the two products to work seamlessly together, greatly increasing the efficiency of our compositing pipeline."
Key New Features in Toxik 2008* Bicubic Warping: Allows users to manipulate image distortion and perspective to create photo-realistic composites* Interoperability with Maya: the Maya render layers, cameras, locators,axis and world space information load directly into Toxik, allowingusers to add live-action elements or 3D post techniques such as depth-of-field and motion blur.* Versioning Tool: Allows users to manage multiple iterations and outputs with support for multi-channel open EXR import.
For a complete feature listing and to learn more about Toxik 2008 visit www.autodesk.com/toxik.
Autodesk anticipates that Toxik 2008 (Windows and Linux) will be available worldwide fall 2007. North American suggested retail pricing for one Toxik creative seat is $3,485 (international pricing may vary). Toxik 2008 will be demonstrated on Aug. 6 at Autodesk's San Diego User Group Event and will also be showcased at the SIGGRAPH 2007 conference in San Diego from Aug. 7-9 at Autodesk booth #703.
The previous product version, Toxik 2007, is available on both Windows and Linux operating systems, featuring a fully integrated, high-performance Oracle database that offers transparent metadata management, multi-user collaboration and advanced version tracking for film pipelines.
Autodesk Inc. (www.autodesk.com) is the world leader in 2D and 3D design software for the manufacturing, construction and media and entertainment markets. Since its introduction of AutoCAD software in 1982, Autodesk has developed the broadest portfolio of state-of-the-art digital prototyping solutions to help customers experience their ideas before they are real. Fortune 1000 companies rely on Autodesk for the tools to visualize, simulate and analyze real-world performance early in the design process to save time and money, enhance quality and foster innovation.
Bill Desowitz, former editor of VFXWorld, is currently the Crafts Editor of IndieWire.
