Unreal Engine for Pre-Visualization: A Live Case Study

Using Unreal Engine 5 for a complex car chase pre-visualization proved incredibly effective, allowing us to lock down difficult blocking and camera moves long before getting to set. We started by importing raw CAD models of the specific vehicle and LIDAR scans of our intended location, then had our animation team build out key stunt beats directly in engine.

The 'worked' part was the iteration speed. Directors could sit with the animators, manipulate camera angles in real-time, and even 'drive' the virtual car themselves to feel the timing. This saved us days of on-set discussion and fumbling. We identified several spatial limitations and potential sightline issues that would have been costly corrections in actual production. What didn't work as well was the initial setup time; getting the CAD models optimized and the LIDAR data properly textured and lit within Unreal took longer than anticipated. We also found that subtle nuances of driver reaction and vehicle weight transfer were still best communicated through a combination of animatic and discussion, rather than solely relying on the raw Unreal output for that granular feel.

Now that the technology is more accessible, how are other ADs integrating these advanced pre-viz tools into their day-to-day workflow, beyond just stunt sequences?