We’ve seen IMAX movies about space before, but the new documentary IN SATURN’S RINGS may just be one of the most impressive cinematic journeys ever produced. The film uses millions of still images of Saturn (and apparently other planets and galaxies) but isn’t enhanced by CGI, giving us a very real look at the natural wonder that is outer space. It’s directed by Stephen van Vuuren, and you can get a taste of what to expect with the trailer below – which incidentally you can choose to watch in 4K if you like (just adjust the settings on the player). I realize films like this may not be super desirable in this day of big Hollywood blockbusters, but if what you see in that clip isn’t at least a tiny bit intriguing to you… well, I’d be shocked. Check it out and tell us your thoughts in the comments below.
The film is 100% created using only flat 2D photographs (often hundreds or thousands per frame) stitched together for massive hundred megapixel+ resolutions that are scaled and zoomed using techniques developed by the filmmaker, based on Ken Burns and 2.5D photo animation processes.
A computer is actually not even required to do this – it could all be done exactly using photoanimation techniques from 100 years ago (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Photoanimation).
No 3D models, texture mapping, 3D CGI, camera projection, cloning or painting or any other VFX techniques are used – every pixel is what was captured in the photograph. The photographs are processed as minimally as possible – much less than your average Instagram photo.
You can find more information on IN SATURN’S RINGS at the official website
Born and raised in Dallas, Mark has been a movie critic since 1994, with reviews featured in print, radio and National TV. In 2001 he started the Entertainment section of the Herorealm website, where he contributed film reviews and celebrity interviews until 2004. After three years of service there, he started Bigfanboy.com, which has become one of the Dallas film community's leading information websites. Bigfanboy hosts several movie screenings in the Texas area, and works closely with film and TV studios and promotional partners to host exciting events and contests. The site also features a variety of rare celebrity and filmmaker interviews, and Bigfanboy.com regularly covers the film festival circuit as well. In addition to Hollywood reporting, Mark has worked for many years as an advertising and sci-fi/comic book artist. Clients have included Lucasfilm Ltd., Topps Trading Cards, The Dallas Mavericks and The Dallas Stars. From 2002 until 2015 he managed the Dallas Comic Con, Sci-Fi Expo and Fan Days events in the DFW area. He currently catalogs rare comic books and movie memorabilia for Heritage Auctions, and runs the Dallas Comic Show conventions, but remains an avid moviegoer and cinema buff. 
