Gollum / Smeagol
Jan writes: Andy Serkis is scheduled to take part in the Academy’s symposium “Acting in the Digital Age” at Samuel Goldwyn Theatre. From the website: Revolutionary developments in digital technology are impacting every aspect of filmmaking, including the discipline of acting. Today’s actors are performing in ways their predecessors couldn’t have imagined.

Short Films and Feature Animation Branch governor Bill Kroyer will lead an evening focused on two Oscar-winning films – “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button” (2008) and “Avatar” (2009) – to demonstrate how innovations in performance-capture technology, digital doubles, digital makeup, photorealism and image manipulation are affecting actors. “Acting in the Digital Age” will feature a panel of cast and crew members from both films who will discuss the challenges and opportunities that come with these changing technologies. The program includes film clips and behind-the-scenes footage of the actors at work. More..