A nuge in the right direction

[Terwonick]

If somebody could suggest a free modeling program (not Blender), I would be (near) eternally in your debt!

 

[Freyja]

You can get Maya for free if you're a student?

 

[AgeNt_]

same with 3ds max.

there is softimage XSI (valve uses)
and not many people know about this program but GMAX is a ripoff of 3ds max, and its free
http://www.turbosquid.com/gmax

 

[Mick-a-nator]

What's wrong with Blender (other than the complete and utter lack of any decent smoothing...)
max/maya 3 year student licence is a good idea, but if you're not a student, then XSI mod tool will work, but I personally think it is an absolute bitch to use.

 

[Numerous]

Same with 4D cinema, although it CAN be effing annoying at times.