Andrew Roberts of ILM: The Art and Science Behind Seamless Visual Effects
Sep 7, 2023
auto_awesome
Emmy-winning VFX supervisor Andrew Roberts discusses working in virtual production at ILM, collaborative decision-making, and modern tools used in visual effects. They also delve into their experience bringing the Star Wars universe to life, utilizing stagecraft and real-time technology. The podcast explores the intersection of technology and art in filmmaking, highlighting the importance of communication and resources for learning. Additionally, it touches on the role of education, mentoring, and fostering diversity in the visual effects industry.
Collaboration and gathering the right ingredients on set are crucial for capturing footage that will enhance visual effects work.
Promoting diversity and inclusion in the visual effects industry is a priority for Andrew Roberts, who actively mentors artists from underrepresented backgrounds.
Deep dives
The Role of Visual Effects in Filmmaking
Visual effects have a significant impact on the filmmaking process, from pre-production to post-production. The guest, Andrew Roberts, shares his experience as an associate visual effects supervisor at ILM and his involvement in projects like Obi-Wan Kenobi and The Creator. He emphasizes the importance of gathering the right ingredients on set and collaborating with various filmmakers to capture the necessary footage for visual effects work. Roberts also highlights the connection between technology and art in the visual effects industry, as well as the significance of lighting and the role of visual effects in storytelling.
Educational Resources for Aspiring Cinematographers
Roberts suggests several resources for aspiring cinematographers interested in learning more about visual effects. He recommends documentaries like Light and Magic and websites like Before and Afters and Post-Cast, which provide insights into the work of visual effects supervisors and CG artists. Additionally, Roberts mentions CG Garage, a podcast that delves into the technical and artistic aspects of visual effects. He also encourages aspiring cinematographers to explore resources that focus on lighting and to foster curiosity and ask questions, as visual effects and cinematography share a common ground in terms of light and its behavior.
The Onset Visual Effects Supervisor Role
Roberts discusses the joys and challenges of being an onset visual effects supervisor. He explains that being involved from pre-production allows for a deeper connection to the filmmaking process and the ability to gather the right ingredients for visual effects work. Roberts emphasizes the importance of effective communication and collaboration with the first AD, production designer, and other team members on set. He also highlights the physical aspects of the role, such as adapting to different locations and ensuring self-care during demanding shooting schedules. Roberts's firsthand experience on set enables him to provide context to the visual effects team during post-production, facilitating a smoother process and ensuring the visual effects align with the director's vision.
Promoting Diversity and Inclusion in the Visual Effects Industry
Roberts shares his dedication to mentoring artists from underrepresented backgrounds and promoting diversity and inclusion in the visual effects industry. He discusses his involvement in the Academy Gold Program, where he mentors aspiring filmmakers. Roberts also highlights organizations like InclusionFX and AfroVFX, which provide opportunities and resources for underrepresented individuals in the industry. His aim is to inspire confidence and create a space where diverse voices and perspectives are embraced, recognizing the unique value that diversity brings to the field.
Are you fascinated by how visual effects can transform storytelling? Tune in to this episode featuring two-time Emmy-winning VFX supervisor Andrew Roberts, who has worked on bringing the worlds of Avatar, Obi-Wan Kenobi and The Creator to life. This episode touches on his experience working in virtual production at ILM, how he approaches collaborative-decision making in his role, and the modern tools VFX teams use to enhance cinematic stories. If you've ever wondered what it's like to bring the Star Wars universe to life, this podcast is for you.