Todd Perry, a veteran visual effects supervisor with decades of experience in the industry, shares his journey from his early fascination with Star Wars to becoming a key figure in VFX. Todd discusses how he transitioned from experimenting with stop-motion and early computer graphics to landing his first major jobs at Imageworks and Weta, working on projects like The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers. He reflects on pivotal moments in his career, including his work as a CG supervisor on blockbuster films like Age of Ultron, Doctor Strange, and Black Panther. Todd also reveals how he embraced the challenges of remote work early, setting the stage for a future in distributed filmmaking.
The conversation dives into the evolution of VFX workflows, the integration of AI, and the balance between practical effects and digital artistry. Todd highlights his role in innovative projects like I’m a Virgo and his involvement in the Oscar-shortlisted live-action short film he recently produced and supervised. Packed with industry insights and advice for aspiring artists, this episode showcases Todd’s adaptability, passion for storytelling, and deep understanding of the tools shaping the future of filmmaking.
Links:
0:04:21 Todd Perry’s early inspirations and journey into visual effects
0:08:36 Discovering computer graphics and transitioning to 3D work
0:14:41 Breaking into the industry and first big projects at Imageworks
0:20:06 Transitioning to supervising roles on films like Age of Ultron
0:24:31 Working on Doctor Strange and insights into Black Panther
0:29:51 Innovations in practical effects versus digital effects
0:35:06 Todd’s approach to remote work and distributed VFX pipelines
0:41:11 Highlights of Todd’s Oscar-shortlisted live-action short film
0:46:31 How AI is reshaping tools and workflows in filmmaking
0:54:21 Reflections on the future of mid-budget films and storytelling
1:01:56 Closing thoughts and Todd’s current projects