Voicing Industry Concerns

At the FMX (Film & Media Exchange) conference in Stuttgart, Germany, industry expert Scott Ross highlighted ongoing struggles within the visual effects (VFX) sector. With over 40 years of experience—including co-founding Digital Domain—Ross noted that VFX companies are often “abused” and “taken advantage of,” leading to fears about the industry’s sustainability.

The Need for a Trade Association

During the panel discussion moderated by tech executive Dave Gouge, Ross advocated for the formation of a global trade association for VFX. He stressed the importance of representation and assertiveness, stating, “if it’s not changed, we’ll continue to see companies go out of business and creative, wonderful people be unemployed.” Despite recognizing that this is not a new idea, he emphasized that the recent collapse of Technicolor has reignited the conversation.

Current Landscape of VFX Companies

Ross pointed out the non-union status of the VFX industry, where the Visual Effects Society operates more as an honorary group than a trade body. He expressed skepticism about the potential effectiveness of a trade association but indicated it could provide the necessary leverage to change what many view as a problematic business model. He remarked, “One of the problems that I saw…is fear sort of stopped them from going to the clients and saying, ‘we’re mad as hell and we’re not gonna take it anymore.’”

Ownership Dynamics and Challenges

Ross further explained the complexities introduced by major studios acquiring VFX companies, citing examples like Netflix’s purchase of Scanline and Disney’s ownership of ILM. He warned that if studios own these companies, they may resist changes that could improve working conditions within the sector.

Industry Insights from Panelists

Fellow panelist David Li, CEO of Dream Machine FX, echoed Ross’s sentiments, emphasizing that most industries operate with a trade association for advocacy and collaboration. Li noted the disparity between studios, claiming that differing business practices contribute to the lack of a unified association in the VFX realm.

On Unionization and Global Standards

In recent years, some VFX professionals have sought to join the labor union IATSE, including workers from Marvel and Walt Disney Pictures. However, Ross cautioned that effective unionization would require an international approach. He highlighted the potential financial burden of operating under union standards, stating that it could drive costs higher than non-union shops, particularly in countries like India or the UK.

Perspectives on AI in Visual Effects

Addressing the impact of artificial intelligence, Ross expressed concern about its implications for the VFX workforce. He argued that many roles in VFX do not involve core creative decisions, likening traditional work to assembling parts rather than designing them. He warned, “When AI winds up becoming a really substantive force, I wonder about what that will do to the visual effects workforce.”

Looking Ahead: Opportunities and Challenges

Despite these concerns, Li remained optimistic about the future, highlighting that creativity is becoming increasingly valuable in the industry. “If you started a trade association, we would certainly join,” he pledged, reinforcing the idea that collaborative efforts could benefit all involved.

In conclusion, as discussed by Ross, the rapid evolution of AI and its integration into VFX processes will likely reshape the industry significantly in the coming years, making adaptability essential for future success.