Opening Scene

Animating the Xwing flying along a path I felt was the best option. I set the target camera and xwing to the same path to ensure fluid motion.

This is a fantastic way to ensure smooth fluid motion along a path, removing natural human zig zag motions. Also editing the banking amount and ticking follow path really gives it a realistic touch.

I also addressed the issues of the thruster glow. For this I used directional spotlights, and adjusted the far attenuation to ensure no light reflected on unwanted areas. It gives a nice surrounding glow to the rear of the ship.