This is the result of this thread, I like the way we bounce ideas off each other in this community, a bit of a brainstorming session.
I've done the research and decided to go with MoI of course and for NPR I've gone with Brian's suggestion (Thanks Brian,'mate')
with Carrara 3D Express plus the Toon!Pro plugin, the ease of use and price, it's great.

Now for the Photorealistic side ??? Not yet.

Thanks Michael Gibson for the great bit of code and thanks to everyone who joined this thread.

Here's a little something I whipped up to start my journey exploring these apps.
I call it Chubby Airways.

Cheers
Danny

Danny
I look forward to the time you appreciate the value of Carrara6 Pro.
Never hesitate to PM me for help with Carrara.

http://tigme.net/home/?dirname=html_docs/00000home
A huge range of great tutes here
I would, especialy, suggest taking the time to download all the 3D Enzines (3dXtract) magazines from this site. Really great tutes for Carrara--any version!

Thanks Brian,
Good site.
And thanks again for the tip on toon!pro.

Cheers
Danny

Just another freeby if anyone's interested.

http://inkulator.sourceforge.net/

~Danny~

Nice find Danny - I like the animation examples on http://inkulator.sourceforge.net/

Gives me an idea for a demo I want to add to my website.

So many toys, so little time !

Ed