Circus News Network? CNN goes under the big top for year in review

CNN presented its annual Anderson Cooper 360 special looking back at the year that was from under a virtual big top complete with matching graphics.

The special, hosted by correspondent Tom Foreman, utilized the network’s virtual environment technology, which has placed Foreman on everything from maps with 3D planes to a virtual White House lawn complete with goats.

This time around, however, Foreman could be found “in” a virtual circus ring — complete with a “sand” floor and all the props.

The special’s graphics, meanwhile, echoed the virtual circus theme, with commentators placed in front of chroma-keyed “burst” graphics and lower thirds with a inspired font.