Sure, we've seen a recent increase in virtual acting (those three-dimensional, computer generated "characters") in movies like
A Toy Story, the
Shrek movies,
The Incredibles, and lesser known movies such as
S1mOne (pronounced Simone). However, these movies still contain one common component — live actors provide the personality and voice of the virtual characters.
Many actors might even view virtual acting as having its own benefits, as they don't require elaborate make-up sessions or physical actions. Although live action is likely more challenging for an actor, virtual acting might be a nice change of pace. As for the fall of live actors, I do not think that this is yet an accurate statement. Live actors' stars are still rising, and virtual acting is just another way for these stars to shine. So for the many actors and actresses in Hollywood, virtual actors will likely not be putting actors out of a job. Some day, when technology pins a personality to a computer, virtual actors may be all the rage, but that is likely many years in the future.
Check out these cool virtual acting links: