“Visual Effects Society Responds to Complaints of Studios Underplaying VFX Work: It’s “Time to Illuminate VFX”
The esteemed society has issued an uncommon reproach following The Hollywood Reporter’s revelation of the tendency to overlook VFX contributions in the promotion of major cinematic spectacles.
The Visual Effects Society, representing a substantial 4,500 members across 45 nations, emphatically asserts that VFX artists “merit the recognition they rightfully deserve.”
In response to The Hollywood Reporter’s article dated September 1, entitled “VFX Pros Expose the Hidden Costs of Selling a Movie as ‘Real’,” which delves into the practice of filmmakers and studio marketing teams emphasizing the authenticity of their productions, the Visual Effects Society has released an official statement. This phenomenon, however, often fails to provide a comprehensive picture. According to sources cited in THR’s report, there have been instances where a deliberate strategy was employed to downplay VFX in movie marketing, resulting in diminished acknowledgment for the dedicated professionals behind these visual marvels.
A portion of the VES statement reads, “Respect and acknowledgment for visual effects artists has been a long-standing issue within the global entertainment industry and this story unveiled a reality that many of our members and VFX practitioners have grappled with for years.”
One source quoted in the original THR article conceded that at times, there is a clear directive stating, “There will be no discussion of VFX… We don’t wish to overshadow the actors or disrupt the illusion that someone performed all of these stunts.” Another veteran from the VFX segment of the Film Academy expressed, “It has reached a point where this is preventing people from receiving nominations and Academy Awards.”
The complete statement from the VES is as follows:
Respect and acknowledgment for visual effects artists have long been contentious issues within the global entertainment industry — and this story (“VFX Pros Expose the Hidden Costs of Selling a Movie as ‘Real’” dated September 1, 2023) has unveiled a reality that many of our members and VFX practitioners have been grappling with for years. Once seen as a postproduction role, visual effects professionals are now integral members of the “first on/last off” essential crew, with VFX playing an indispensable and pervasive role in the creative process. It is through the artistry and innovation of VFX that stories once considered impossible come to life. VFX artists rightfully deserve to be acknowledged and celebrated for their monumental contributions to cinematic storytelling and substantial financial success, just like any other craft that plays a pivotal role in creative collaboration. They should not be minimized or relegated to obscurity as if they detract from the illusion of “pure” filmmaking.
Speaking with a unified voice on behalf of our 4,500-plus members spanning 45 countries worldwide — visual effects artists take immense pride in their work, their craftsmanship, and their ability to harness technology in service of storytelling. They take great pride in collaborating to bring visually breathtaking narratives to the screen, captivating audiences. And they unquestionably deserve recognition commensurate with their vital role in the industry. The time has come to shed light on visual effects and acknowledge the remarkable achievements we can attain together.“