Cutting Edge CG in Filmmaking with Adam Valdez Ep 50
Adam Valdez is a pioneering figure in the world of computer graphics and virtual production. With a career spanning several decades, Valdez has left an indelible mark on the industry. He first gained recognition for his work on iconic films such as Robocop and Jurassic Park, showcasing his talent and technical expertise.
Valdez's breakthrough came as an animation head on the critically acclaimed films The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (2001) and The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers (2002), contributing to their visual effects success. His work continued to impress as a lead visual supervisor on notable films like 10,000 BC, The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian, John Carter, World War Z, and Maleficent.
However, it was his exceptional contributions to The Jungle Book (2016) that earned him widespread acclaim and an Academy Award for Best Visual Effects at the 89th Academy Awards. Valdez's dedication to pushing the boundaries of creativity led to his second Academy Award nomination for Best Visual Effects in 2020, for his work on The Lion King (2019), which was brought to life using Unreal Engine 5, with support from the Epic Games Mega Grant and VFX house MPC.
Valdez's expertise and passion have made him a sought-after director in the field of virtual production. His latest project, BRAVE CREATURES, exemplifies the power of Unreal Engine as it collaborates with VFX house MPC to deliver captivating animation and visual effects. With an illustrious career and a penchant for innovation, Adam Valdez continues to inspire and shape the world of computer graphics.
Highlights of the Episode:
0:00 Introduction
0:20 Introduction of guest
1:11 How did you get into computer graphics
07:37 Witnessing filmmakings' massive transition
11:56 AI is here
20:59 Applauding the idea of UV mapping going away
24:50 Buzzwords about Metaverse web three
30:24 Making Brave Creatures in unreal engine
35:44 What it's like making something of your own again
37:28 Top three programs to learn to compliment unreal Engine skills
43:41 What to focus on when starting or growing
48:07 Plans for a game based on Brave Creatures
50:57 An amazing world in prehistoric planet
01:02:06 Where VR is really great
01:05:00 Favorite mocap suit
01:10:06 What it's like winning an Oscar
01:12:45 Do you use storyboards when you come up with an idea
01:22:30 Career phases
01:23:48 A 3D tool that works in real time
01:30:25 Wrap up
01:30:52 Outro
Connecting with the Guest:
Website: https://www.mpcfilm.com/en/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-valdez-0102a11/
Connecting with CG Pro:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/becomecgpro
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/becomecgpro/
Website: https://www.becomecgpro.com/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/BecomeCGPro
#CG #VirtualProduction #Filmmaking