Grant will be used by Montreal-based studio to further the company’s virtual production initiatives; their technology replaces greenscreens with a virtual set, offering producers creative flexibility and freedom.
Montreal-based post and VFX studio MELS has been awarded an Epic MegaGrant from Epic Games, to be used in ongoing development of the company’s virtual production initiatives. In 2020, MELS embarked on a digital shift by launching a virtual production stage equipped with an LED screen backdrop. The technology replaces greenscreens with a virtual set, in real-time, providing producers greater creative freedom. The studio now offers clients state-of-the-art facilities that combines virtual worlds with digital technology.
“Since we developed our virtual production platform, Unreal Engine has been integral in taking the innovation to the next level,” shared MELS President Martin Carrier. “This Epic MegaGrant from Epic Games strengthens our collaboration and will help us build on our platform as we seek to replace green screens with cutting-edge technologies.”
MELS’ virtual production stage is an integrated platform that provides a complete virtual production solution. All services including visual effects, cameras, lighting, post-production, technical crews, are linked by fiber optics to all the sets. The turnkey model allows producers and filmmakers greater agility, efficiency, and creative latitude. MELS also offers the option of creating specific virtual stage configurations to meet the needs of projects of all sizes.
The Epic MegaGrants program - originally launched in 2019 with a $100 million fund that continues Epic Games’ long-standing commitment to the success of all creators - is designed to service and assist game developers; enterprise professionals; media and entertainment creators; students; educators; and tool developers doing outstanding work with Unreal Engine or enhancing open-source capabilities for the 3D graphics community.
Source: MELS
