Wikipedia says of Image Metrics:

“The Image Metrics proprietary facial animation system is a Markerless motion capture method in which an actor’s performance is filmed and a 3D animated model is generated directly from the raw images.The process uses pre-existing or newly recorded video of an actor’s facial performance shot with a video or High definition camera. All detail seen in the recorded video is then analyzed and mapped onto a computer-generated 3D model, including the detailed movements of teeth, tongue, lips and eyes.

The Image Metrics animation process captures facial details like eye movement, lip and tongue synching, subtle expressions and skin textures that can be compromised in the use of traditional motion capture methods. Advanced mapping technology allows Image Metrics to deliver facial animation results up to five times faster than motion capture methods and ten times faster than key frame animation.”

Its amazing what technology can do now-a-days and how the studios and film-makers are using it  leaves us in awe. Every year some new form of CGI or motion-sensors showed up. But now we are going to witness a whole new level. 3-D animation movies with people-like characters will no longer take years to make…and who knows what more developments this will lead to!

For more info go to:
http://www.image-metrics.com/