Isotropix Clarisse was used to create a city that was divided in different quarters, ranging from poor to rich. Each quarter looked at specific folders containing assets that match the social status of that particular district. Everything from trees to street furniture was also added this way and all in the same 3D environment.
This technical animation how the build-up of the digital city: houses are first represented by coloured blocks (the colours represent social status) layed out on a map of the medieval city of Antwerp. These blocks are then replaced by more detailed assets of houses ranging from poor to rich. Finally, the city is dressed with trees, street furniture and digital extras.
In one of the film's key scenes, Marieke tells Storm she often risks the perilous climb to the cathedral's tower, the city's highest point, to take in the breathtaking view and contemplate. To realise this scene, two actors were shot in a simple set piece in front of green screen. This footage was used in multiple shots in which we orbit the church and see the city below in all it's splendor.
Other shots involve matte paintings, and enriching shots with assets such as ships in harbors and removing anachronistic elements.
Scenes that were set more at street level also often required the help of CG to extend or replace the surrounding. In this case, a cable cam shot was extended by adding 3D houses, roofs and background elements.