Philosophical perspectives on realism in virtual production (VP) and extended reality (XR) in contemporary Film and TV production.

Abstract

This research contributes to a deeper comprehension of the fusion of real and virtual in virtual production (VP) and extended reality (XR), emphasizing their role as one of the ways to preserve the continuity of dramatic space in film and TV production. It explores the blending of real and virtual elements on the virtual production set, focusing on cinematic concepts such as mise-en-scene, plan sequence, and in-camera effects like rear projection. The research aims to bridge the gap between technology, philosophy, and film studies by providing multidisciplinary analysis and enhancing our understanding of contemporary media production practices. Key inquiries include the influences on perspectives and definitions of reality, the distortion and merging of reality in hyperreality, and the use of simulacra to challenge the authenticity of the medium. By departing from traditional theoretical frameworks such as Plato's worldview and Cartesian dichotomy, the research provides nuanced insights into the "realism of the movie set,"where simulacra represent truth. Drawing on Baudrillard's taxonomy of representation, it demonstrates how modern virtual production techniques, as seen in Jon Favreau's work on The Mandalorian (2021), empower creative autonomy, and replicate real-world processes.