Formation of the First Computer Graphics Teams at Rede Globo: Processes, Challenges and Legacy

Abstract

Brazilian television underwent significant transformations with the introduction of computer graphics in the 1980s. Rede Globo, renowned for its innovative capacity, was one of the pioneers in this process, investing in the formation of a specialized department, which later became a separate company integrated into the group, and in the training of highly specialized teams. The introduction of computer graphics revolutionized not only the visual aesthetics of television programming but also the production and editing processes of audiovisual content. With technological advancements, professionals from different areas had to specialize in new tools and visual languages. This article is the result of research conducted for the author’s Master’s thesis and describes how these teams were structured, the challenges faced, and the impact of this period on the evolution of computer graphics in Brazil. The study seeks to understand the strategies adopted to overcome the scarcity of national and international references and how Rede Globo managed to implement innovative solutions to create a unique and advanced visual identity for its programming. Furthermore, I will address the impacts of this innovation on the global scene and the influence of Rede Globo in other television markets. It’s easy to imagine that without TV Globo’s investment, the character Shrek might not exist, since PDI - Pacific Data Images, the company that created the film, was founded with resources from the TV network. The legacy of computer graphics in Brazilian television can be further studied and explored in greater detail, highlighting the evolution of technologies and their influence on the formation of new companies and professionals in the audiovisual industry.