How the Dinosaur Input Device Saved Stop-Motion Animation for Jurassic Park

The Oral History of the Dinosaur Input Device (DID)

When CGI replaced our planned stop-motion dinosaurs for Jurassic Park, I felt extinct. But we refused to give up our expertise in animal movement. By collaborating with ILM, we built the Dinosaur Input Device, a sensor-covered armature that let traditional animators drive digital models. This unique tool bridged the gap between practical effects and computer graphics, ensuring our deep knowledge of dinosaur behavior survived the transition to a new era of visual effects.

"I went down with Dennis Muren when he presented the T-Rex test to Steven and Steven went, 'Wow, that's what we're going to do,' and he asked me how I would feel and I said, 'I feel extinct'."