why during cutscene its always like this ... (small spoiler)

[Catwho]

Okay, I keep seeing this argument "they can't animate your character"

that's not true. The cutscene engine itself is using in-game assets. It's not a full CG render. So they wouldn't have to animate anything, it'd just be a series of IF statements.

IF job=SCH, use move pattern XYZ. Etc.

No, the reason they're not showing you a cool battle sequence between you and an NPC is exactly what Gilraen said - if they're going to have you fight, you're going to do it in control of your character.

[Gaiussenpai]

That's still lame reason because ffxiv may have a good story but your character doesn't feel like they are even part of the story at times.