 |
| Fans Thought It Was AI — But Pursuit of Jade Used Old-School Craft Instead. (Credits: Weibo) |
Pursuit of Jade has sparked unexpected discussion among drama fans after viewers realised the birds and pigs appearing in several scenes look strikingly realistic. The visual quality was convincing enough that many initially assumed the animals were created using AI or CGI. Behind the scenes, however, the production team opted for a far more practical approach — one that blends traditional craftsmanship with subtle digital assistance.
Footage released from the production process revealed that the animals seen in Pursuit of Jade are actually handcrafted dummy models.
Rather than relying entirely on computer graphics, the art department built detailed puppet versions of birds and pigs by hand. The team focused heavily on texture, particularly feathers and skin surfaces, to ensure the models would hold up under close-up camera work.
Every element — from feather layering to body structure — was designed to mirror the appearance of real animals as closely as possible. The result is a level of realism that convinced many viewers they were looking at living creatures on screen.
Manual Movement and Green Screen Tricks
 |
| Not CGI After All: Behind the Lifelike Animals in Pursuit of Jade |
Creating believable movement required another layer of technical effort. The puppets were operated manually by crew members positioned just outside the frame.
During filming, the handlers carefully controlled the animals’ breathing motions, subtle head turns, and small body movements to replicate natural behaviour. These actions were then filmed with the assistance of green screen technology.
In post-production, the crew digitally removed the puppeteers so that only the moving animal models remained visible on screen. When combined with lighting and camera angles on set, the technique produced surprisingly fluid and lifelike performances.
The result is why many viewers assumed advanced CGI had been used.
Why the Production Avoided Using Real Animals
 |
| Pursuit of Jade Production Uses Handmade Animal Puppets Instead of CGI |
The decision to use handmade dummies was not simply an artistic choice. The production team also wanted to avoid placing real animals under the long hours and unpredictable conditions of drama filming.
Television shoots often involve repeated takes, bright lighting, and crowded sets. By using puppets instead, the team ensured animal welfare concerns were completely removed from the process.
The method also allowed directors greater control over scenes that might otherwise be difficult to film with live animals.
Some viewers admitted they were convinced the animals were AI-generated, particularly because of how naturally they move during certain scenes. Others praised the production team for choosing practical effects rather than relying entirely on digital visuals.
On social platforms, several fans described the technique as “old-school creativity done right,” while others said the reveal made them appreciate the behind-the-scenes work even more.
A smaller group of viewers said they initially felt surprised — even slightly tricked — after learning the animals were not real. Yet most agreed the craftsmanship deserves recognition.
Crew members manually operated the puppets during filming. Green screen techniques were then used to remove the handlers, creating the illusion that the animals were moving naturally.
The team wanted to avoid potential stress or welfare issues for animals during long filming schedules.
The behind-the-scenes reveal has added another layer of appreciation for Pursuit of Jade, proving that practical filmmaking techniques can still deliver convincing results in the age of digital effects.
What do you think about the production’s approach — clever craftsmanship or surprisingly convincing movie magic?