
Bad Decisions Podcast
#52 The Animation Industry is COLLAPSING with Zach Mulligan
Aug 6, 2024
Zach Mulligan, a seasoned 3D animator known for his work at DreamWorks and films like 'The Bad Guys,' dives deep into the animation industry's current crisis. He candidly discusses significant layoffs and the corporate focus on profits over creativity. Zach shares insights about the potential rise of indie studios and the impact of AI on jobs, while highlighting the importance of mastering traditional skills amidst technological advancements. He also touches on innovative techniques like volumetric capture that are pushing animation into new territories.
01:12:24
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Quick takeaways
- Zach Mulligan emphasizes the animation industry's deterioration due to corporate prioritization of profits over artistic integrity, resulting in major studio layoffs.
- The rise of indie animation represents a transformative shift, as democratized technology enables smaller teams to create compelling content autonomously.
Deep dives
Changing Dynamics in the Animation Industry
The animation industry is undergoing significant changes, highlighted by layoffs at major studios like Pixar and increasing cost-cutting measures. These layoffs signal a deeper issue related to corporate strategies, where executives prioritize profits over quality. Zach Mulligan, an experienced animator, points out that while technology for visual effects (VFX) continues to improve, the focus on artistic quality is diminishing. This shift often leads to decisions that cater to immediate box office success rather than long-term artistic integrity.
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