An often unheralded part of feature animation is the effects animation, and Walt Disney Animation Studios has continually ramped up its effects technology with each new release. A series of new interviews look into the latest developments made with water and fire simulations for Moana, which opens in U.S. theaters today.

The interviews come from CNET, which interviewed Moana visual effects supervisor Kyle Odermatt and head of effects Marlon West. In terms of water effects, Disney had to tackle both ‘at sea’ simulations and shots where the ocean acts as a playful character. Additional simulation techniques were required to bring, Te Ká, the living volcano, to life.

Watch the CNET videos below:

Ian Failes

Ian Failes is a writer covering visual effects and tech for Cartoon Brew.

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