Hold onto your hats, animation enthusiasts! Pixar just dropped a bombshell – a massive upgrade to their industry-leading rendering software, RenderMan, and it's already shaping the visuals of Toy Story 5! We're talking about a game-changer here.
We already know that RenderMan is considered by many to be the best rendering software for animation. Used in Pixar's own blockbuster movies, this powerful tool is available for free for non-commercial use, offering cutting-edge rendering technology, and supporting both CPU and GPU rendering.
Today, RenderMan is getting a major generational leap forward. RenderMan 27 introduces RenderMan XPUTM, a final-frame renderer designed for feature animation and visual effects. This is a complete overhaul, replacing Pixar's existing RIS architecture with the goal of boosting performance, interactivity, and creative freedom.
Pixar themselves are calling this their most significant update in a decade. But what exactly does this mean for us?
Key improvements include:
- XPU Power: Artists can now harness the combined power of both CPU and GPU resources to create stunning final frames.
- Enhanced Farm Management: XPU now supports checkpointing for production rendering, making it easier to manage large-scale projects.
- Deep Data Workflows: New capabilities for handling complex data.
- Stylized LooksTM Toolset: Advanced tools for creating unique visual styles.
- Compositing Options: Expanded compositing features, including mattes and additional AOV options.
But here's where it gets exciting: RenderMan 27 also features machine learning-powered interactive denoising. This is designed to drastically reduce iteration times while maintaining image quality during live rendering sessions. Imagine faster feedback and more time for creativity!
Additional enhancements to XPU include multi-GPU rendering, full support for mesh lights, support for all physical lights, and the integration of ILM’s MaterialX Lama.
With improvements in final frame rendering with NVIDIA RTX PRO, Solaris workflows and expanded compatibility with the latest DCC tools, RenderMan 27 is aligned with the VFX Reference Platform 2024, ensuring stability and compatibility across industry pipelines, according to Pixar.
The Proof is in the Pixar Pudding:
The animation studio has already put RenderMan XPU to work on Toy Story 5, slated for release on June 19, 2026. Pixar Animation Studios CTO Steve May says the upgrade gave artists unprecedented interactivity for cinematic lighting and faster feedback, allowing them to focus more on creativity and story.
What are the key takeaways?
- Faster Rendering: The new XPU architecture should significantly speed up the rendering process.
- More Creative Control: Enhanced tools and features give artists more freedom to experiment and refine their work.
- Improved Workflow: Machine learning-powered denoising and other optimizations streamline the creative process.
But here's where it gets controversial... The experience of the VFX and animation studio's lighting team convinced it to move to XPU for final rendering.
RenderMan version 27 is available today for customers on maintenance. Individual licenses of RenderMan are available for $595, and $250 for yearly maintenance.
What do you think? Are you excited about these advancements in rendering technology? Do you think this will lead to even more stunning visuals in animated films? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
