Abstract: A three-dimensional (3D) animation apparatus and method for roll rotation determination for rigged 3D model animation, includes display of a 3D model on a display device, which allows for selection of a first set of three feature points. The selection is executed on a first surface representation of a first facial portion of the displayed 3D model. A second surface representation of a second facial portion of an object is received from a motion-sensing device. A second set of three feature points is identified on the received second surface representation. A roll rotation of a head portion of the 3D model is determined based on the first set of three feature points and the second set of three feature points. The movement of the head portion of the 3D model rendered on the display device is controlled in accordance with the determined roll rotation.