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End of an Era?

So, last night I was enjoying a rare moment of relaxation... Not much going on, simply enjoying a lovely evening with my better half. On the television, the Collectors Edition of Young Frankenstein played... Fredrick Frankenstein was gazing at the lab where his grandfather brought the Creature to life... The lovely Jenn leans towards me and states, "This is the type of work I want to do." I give her that grin that only annoyingly cute couples can give. "I'm serious, creating sets and props, I would love to do that kind of work". And, she would be great at it... As those who have seen her work in the past can attest.

When I hear news like the following, it simply breaks this little Geek’s heart:

Lucasfilm and ILM are selling off and forever closing their "Physical Effects" department. Basically, it means that all those fabulous models, matte paintings, and set pieces will go the way of the Dodo... All in favor of a CGI only effects department. Perhaps I am truly starting to show my age, but this news just doesn't sit right with me. Yes, I know CGI is the future of filmmaking. Yes, as one who fully embraces the Digital media over traditional film I know that I am being hypocritical. I don't care. I like knowing that something had to be built. To me, CGI will never fully overcome the look of a well built prop or set piece. Look, I know that in time (and that time is drawing very close) CGI will look as good as the real thing. However, to me, it will never seem correct and I fully admit that such an outlook is my fault. In the back of my mind I will always know that the actors on screen are only interacting with a Green Screen.

Then again... I believe Sin City to be a work of pure genius...

Maybe I just need to deal with it. Maybe I need to understand that I wouldn't be so bummed out if this news came from anywhere except the house that built my childhood...

Maybe...