[mixedbit]

Deep learning is also very successfully used for denoising of global illumination rendered images [1]. In this approach, traditional raytracing algorithm quickly computes rough global illumination of the scene, and neural network is used to remove noise from the output. .

[1] https://www.openimagedenoise.org

[nyanpasu64]

The output image of the demo looks uncannily smooth, like an AI upscale. I feel it's what happens when you preserve edges but lose textures when trying to blow up an image past the amount of incoming data it has.

(EDIT) Denoising compares better at 100% zoom than 125% DPI zoom, and does make it easier to recognize the ferns at the bottom.

[greenknight]

The other thing is that this is supposed to sit in between 3d rendering and compositing with regards to VFX

The 3D render, in an ideal world, is super smooth without imperfections.

The compositing, would take the denoised 3d render, and add other imperfections such as film grain, bloom, and other post effects.