What Do the Theory of Computing and the Movies Have in Common?

Explore the fascinating intersection of theoretical computer science, art, and cinema in this captivating 1-hour 26-minute lecture by Alvy Ray Smith, co-founder of Pixar. Discover how Smith's journey from oil painter to computation theory PhD to digital animation pioneer shaped the evolution of computer graphics. Learn about the central dogma driving modern computer graphics, illustrated through Smith's long-standing FOCS proceedings cover design. Gain insights into the influence of UC Berkeley's computation-theory community on the field and delve into Smith's book "A Biography of the Pixel." Witness the convergence of academic theory and practical application in the entertainment industry, tracing the path from early pixels to groundbreaking digital films like Toy Story.