Poser has been used in many commercials (both directly and indirectly) and less theatrical venues (science and such).  I just think that the overall flexibility of the figures isn't up to expensive, custom rigged figures in other packages.  That's not an idictment of Poser, but just that other packages provide more delicate control over their CA solutions - puppetry with actors in controller suits or more options for inverse kinematic riggings, more sufficient dynamic simulations.  It's more about going for the more expensive solution for better results.

On the other hand, as you mention, some go for the truly inexpensive solution.  It all depends on many factors.  Who is in charge?  Who knows whom?  Who bids for contracts and shows their portfolio?  If competent Poser artists aren't there then it won't happen.  If they are but bigger companies using more 'professional' applications (note the quotes) provide more tantalizing examples, then the Poser option will lose.

It is hard to beat Maya with its worldwide and extremely vast community of professionals (many thousands) and its neverending accolations in movie, TV, and other venues.  Any studio could put two people on a contractual project with only slight profit margins and succeed.  Any individual Poser user would be hard-pressed to compete in such an arena.

One day maybe.  But with the current situation, we'll have to see what road Poser takes.

C makes it easy to shoot yourself in the foot. C++ makes it harder, but when you do, you blow your whole leg off.

 -- Bjarne Stroustrup

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