VFXWorld Magazine

Industry trailblazer tapped to lead innovation across company’s VFX and animation teams, with a focus on emerging technologies, real-time technology, and the use of AI; previous SIGGRAPH chair will also nurture relationships with SIGGRAPH, VES and other industry organizations.

The cutting-edge studio known for their innovations in stop-motion and CG on features including ‘Coraline,’ ‘ParaNorman,’ and ‘Kubo and the Two Strings’ announces plans to bring screenwriter John Brownlow’s first novel ‘Seventeen’ to the big screen.

Nominated animated shorts include ‘I, Barnabé,’ ‘The Great Malaise,’ and ‘4 North A;’ winners will be announced and honored at a series of events set for May 17-20.

Belén Palos is named head of production and Chris Kiser is named COO; Kiser will remain active in creative efforts while mapping out the strategic growth opportunities for the studio.

Tech veteran bring 25+ years’ experience to the growing VFX and design studio; Esther Minitser, Jessica Amburgey, and Stefan Kim promotions also announced.

Using Unreal Engine-based virtual production tools, VFX supervisor Kevin Baillie helps the Oscar-winning director pre-shoot every live-action scene needing digital characters, including mice, chickens, and a cat.   

The former Amazon Movie exec will co-lead the school’s new LA-based ‘Master of Arts in Global Affairs and Management in the Creative Industries’ program, designed for individuals pursuing global leadership and management careers in film/television/new media and other creative industries.

The free virtual event’s 2021 theme is ‘Merging Physical and Digital Worlds – The Rise of the Metaverse;’ 3-day program features sessions, keynotes, and demos, all focused on real-time technology and its impact on the workplace and how people connect.