Unfortunately, i have just finished watching final fatasy; the spirits within.
(go ahead and shake your head in disappointment.)

what i did like was the technology used to make the movie.

i started doing research as to what kinds of soft and hardware was used to make the movie.

apparently the technology used is pretty much obsolete.

my question is ...

is it posible to make a movie like final fantasy: the spirits within
(without the suck-i-ness of a ridiculous plot.)
cheaper?

if so what would i need?

Hardware and Software wise.


and what would it cost me?

Yes.

I think with enthusiasm & commitment you can make anything much cheaper.

I'd say a nice PC - preferably Quad-core to help with frustrating render times and anyone of the top 3D packages out there. 3D Studio Max is my software of choice - or Cinema4d, Maya, Softimage...

Cost obviously varies - I managed to pick a made to order quad-core g9650 with NVidia Quadro FX1700 for just over £400 via eBay and it works a treat - so shop around!

Spirit Within proved that a turd can't be polished. So a good idea is a must then the graphics will follow.

Inspiration:

http://www.rustboy.com/
http://www.studioaka.co.uk