Autodesk has unveiled version 2027 of Flame, its compositing and effects tool. The update focuses on improving communication and automation within the workflow. It introduces a built-in annotation system, two AI models for depth maps, and the Autodesk Assistant for technical queries. Enhancements in metadata, support for OpenTimelineIO, and the expansion of Burn to macOS also arrive.
Pipeline Integration and Automation with AI 🔧
Technically, version 2027 addresses integration and efficiency. Native support for OpenTimelineIO facilitates the exchange of editing data between applications. The new ML Depth, Indoor and Outdoor models generate depth maps from complete scenes, not from individual shots. The Assistant responds in natural language about procedures. Metadata preservation and custom tokens aim to standardize processes in large studios.
The Assistant that Answers, but Doesn't Make Coffee 🤖
With the new Assistant, you can now ask how to do a complicated keying without leaving the software. It's a step forward, although it will surely still not understand your accent if you ask with too much passion. The irony is that it can explain depth algorithms to you, but it won't be able to console you when that render fails at 3 in the morning. AI advances, but creative frustration remains 100% human and un-updated.