Crazy talk is an application that allows the user to take an image (or portrait) and digitally bring it to life. Here is  my five minute attempt- [kml_flashembed movie="http://video.google.com/googleplayer.swf?docid=2103633650100969" width="400" height="326" wmode="transparent" /]

I hope I don't look and sound like that in real life!  :P You can edit lots of features though I only had time to play with a couple of facial expressions and the voice morphing (for the time being). This software will be fantastic for encouraging writing; what is a character without a script?!

iClone is another piece of software that allows you to edit and personalise your own avatar, create scenes, edit lighting effects and character emotions. It is similar to Media Stage. Here is my five minute attempt:  [kml_flashembed movie="http://www.youtube.com/v/tZ0AwljO6CU" width="425" height="350" wmode="transparent" /] If you look closely you should see that the avatar's face is familiar (I don't think I look too dissimilar!)   ;-)

I know my clips are pretty silly, but this stuff is really fun! I can see it really enthusing and engaging youngsters- They will be learning without knowing it.