Particle Illusion Fusion Volume 1, Hosted by Aharon Rabinowitz

Jim Harvey JHV Digital New York, USA ©Copyright 2005 Jim Harvey and Creativecow.net. All Rights Reserved

It's a good thing that you can pause a DVD, because Aharon Rabinowitz packs so much information into a small space that you're going to be pausing this DVD frequently. His rapid delivery is more a function of him knowing the subject so well rather than Aharon having had too much coffee (Although there were a couple of points where I wasn't sure one way or another). This is one training DVD that you're going to have to pay attention to lest you miss some key points. (Hence the pause key) It does make it an adventure to follow him along. I had the slight feeling that he had me by the hand dragging me through the program with my feet barely touching the ground. That's not a bad thing, however, as Aharon doesn't miss a beat. No stutters, miscues or hesitation, it's climb aboard and full speed ahead.


The DVD is packed to the rafters with content. You won't be getting that “What the heck did I pay for?” feeling with this DVD. Thoughtfully, Aharon has included both high and low quality QuickTime movies so that even those of us with less than optimal systems can view and learn the subject. And honestly, if you need to run the lower resolution files, stop right now and go upgrade your equipment. I would state for the record that calling the alternate QuickTime files “low quality “ is a misnomer. The quality of the lower res mov's is almost indistinguishable from those of the HQ files. So maybe you can hold off on that new system purchase I was yelling at you about.


I liked all the little tricks that Aharon turns us on to in the course of his presentation. Tips like turning off your background layer when rendering for use in After Effects. A small point, but something that is easily overlooked. Step by step instruction that will enable you to get the most from Particle Illusion is jammed into every nook and cranny of this DVD. You'll be referring to it over and over again, and each time you watch, you'll pick up something new.


Throughout the program little cut scenes will pop up referencing something that Aharon has discussed. These little cartoons aren't really necessary, but only a cranky sot would find them objectionable. It's nice that Aharon takes the time to give us all a breather with the little cut scenes. Otherwise, they'd have to furnish oxygen with this set.


The outside of the package states that the DVD is packed with 2 full hours of video training. At the speed with which Aharon takes us, it might be 3 hours! Seriously, this DVD DOES pack in the training, and it really is fun to watch. That's because the production value is so high. Clear and to the point, excellent movie files and an instructor who is extremely well versed in the subject, makes this a no-brainer if you want to learn how to extract the most from Particle Illusion

©Copyright 2005 Jim Harvey | Creative Cow
All Rights Reserved