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