Budding movie-makers can learn Hollywood's latest tricks without having to cross the Atlantic.
Lewes Tertiary College has introduced an evening class teaching Maya, a computer programme used to create stunning TV and film special effects (SFX).
Steve Hunt, course teacher and 3D specialist, said: "Maya was the driving engine behind all the award-winning sequences in The Matrix, Planet of the Apes and Moulin Rouge.
"The software is extremely expensive, costing more than £10,000. Lewes College has gained a set of licences to use Maya in an educational setting.
This is a fantastic opportunity for anyone wanting to get into visualisations or special effects to learn the key skills of 3D-animation."
Maya is the main 3D software used throughout the US. It is multi-purpose, capable of making cutting-edge 3D-animation for blockbusters and a commonplace tool for creating TV titles.
Mr Hunt said: "Although Maya is a film and TV standard, it is used regularly by architects and designers for fly-bys of projected buildings and as a visual aid for training doctors and other medical specialists.
"A knowledge of the Maya application opens up numerous employment opportunities and we expect there to be plenty of people wanting to take advantage of this Sussex training first.
"As part of the course, every student will produce a three-minute showreel which is the standard entry card into industry or further education."
Places are allocated on a first come, first served basis and there is no need for applicants to already be computer whiz-kids.
Mr Hunt said: "You only have to be computer literate at a basic level, have some spatial awareness and be prepared to get to know things about the complexity of Photoshop to make a success of it.
"The course is designed to build up the skills in a 30 week period. No-one will be expected to master everything on day one."
Brighton-based Mr Hunt has an MA in 3D-animation and has won several international awards, including recognition at the Annecy and Siggraph festivals.
The course, which has space for 15 students, runs every Monday evening.
The first lesson was yesterday evening but students can join up to three weeks into the term. Fees are £350.
More information is available at the Adult Centre of the Lewes College web site.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article