Computers and computer technologies are important in a number of facets of motion picture production. Prior to computerization, animation and graphics relied solely on the technique of stop motion--where hand drawing or painting of many, slightly varied images is done and each image is photographed, frame by frame. When displayed at normal motion picture speed (24 frames per second), an animated image is produced. Now, software makes the computerized creation of animated images and scenes routine. Also, computerized enhancement or supplementation can change the character of films involving real people and objects.

Prior to computer animation and computer generated graphical images, animation could be produced two ways. Even in the present day, these methods are still used. The first animation method is to draw or paint a succession of cartoon frames, which are then combined into a film. The second method uses physical models capable...