PIXEL PUZZLE
A limited Podcast Series
DAVID CORDON
Meet your HOST
I am David Cordon, a Spanish/British filmmaker and visual effects professional with ten years of experience in the field, and in this series I am going to be chatting with industry leaders from all areas: business, creatives, tech, and beyond, to cut through the complexity of VFX and focus on what really matters: making it more accessible.
So, whether you are a fan, a professional, or someone completely new to the industry who happens to be curious about it, this is the podcast for you.
In this debut episode, we set the stage for an exciting journey into the captivating world of visual effects.
To help us break the ice and represent the curiosity of the audience, we handed over the hosting reins to the brilliant Dan Schreiber; writer, comedian, and host of the hit podcast No Such Thing As A Fish.
EPISODE 01: BREAKING THE ICE
DANIEL SCHREIBER
Dan Schreiber is a writer, stand-up comedian, TV presenter, producer and podcaster. He is the host of QI derived comedy podcast ‘No SuchThing As A Fish’, which is a regular fixture in the top ten iTunes podcast charts, and the author of ‘The Theory of Everything Else’, a collection of mind-boggling and goosebump-raising theories.
As an extension of the world of weird and wonderful, Dan’s podcast ‘We Can BeWeirdo’s’ launched in May 2023.
EPISODE 02: HISTORY OF VISUAL EFFECTS
From the magical trick photography of Georges Méliès to the groundbreaking innovations of films like Jurassic Park and The Matrix, we unravel the milestones that shaped the industry.
Discover the pioneers who redefined what was possible on screen, the ingenious techniques that brought fantastical worlds to life, and the evolution of tools that made the impossible a reality.
IAN FAILES
Ian Failes is a journalist based in Sydney specialising in visual effects and animation. Ian launched his own VFX and animation publication called Befores & Afters (beforesandafters.com) and an accompanying print magazine.
He has written for fxguide, Cartoon Brew, VFX Voice, 3D Artist, 3D World and many other publications.
EPISODE 03: HOW TALENT ACQUISITION AND DEVELOPMENT DRIVES SUCCESS
In this episode, we sit down with Sophie Maydon to explore the human element behind the stunning visuals in film and television.
Sophie shares her journey into talent acquisition and development within the VFX industry, offering insights into the qualities that make a successful VFX artist and the importance of mentorship.
We delve into the challenges of maintaining a healthy work-life balance in a demanding field and discuss strategies for fostering a sustainable and inclusive work culture.
SOPHIE MAYDON
Sophie Maydon is a passionate advocate for nurturing talent within the VFX industry. With years of experience in leadership and talent development, she has played a pivotal role in creating environments where artists and teams can thrive.
Sophie's dedication goes beyond fostering creativity, she's committed to ensuring that individuals are supported, celebrated, and empowered to keep pushing the boundaries of cinematic storytelling.
EPISODE 04: Let's Talk Business!
Visual effects isn’t just about artistry, it’s a business, and a tough one at that.
In this episode, we sit down with Scott Ross to pull back the curtain on the economics of VFX, the struggles of running a studio in Hollywood, and why, despite the industry’s undeniable growth, many VFX companies still operate on razor-thin margins.
From the rise of Digital Domain to the realities of how studios wield power over vendors, Scott brings his unfiltered perspective to a conversation that every filmmaker, producer, and artist needs to hear.
SCoTT ROSS
A true industry titan, he co-founded Digital Domain with James Cameron and Stan Winston, shaping the future of digital filmmaking. Before that, he ran ILM studio, overseeing groundbreaking work on Terminator 2, The Abyss, and Jurassic Park.
But Scott isn’t just a VFX legend, he’s also one of the industry’s most outspoken voices, known for his sharp insights on the business of visual effects, the challenges of running a studio, and the systemic issues that have long plagued the industry.
EPISODE 05: TECHNOLOGY: THE BACKBONE OF VISUAL EFFECTS
In this episode, we delve into the transformative impact of technology on visual effects with Hao Li. We explore how AI and machine learning are revolutionising the creation of digital humans and reshaping cinematic storytelling.
Hao shares his journey from a fascination with films like Jurassic Park to leading innovations that blur the lines between reality and digital artistry.
Whether you're a film enthusiast or a professional in the industry, this conversation offers a captivating glimpse into the future of visual effects and the technological forces driving it forward.
HAO LI
Hao Li is a pioneering computer scientist and entrepreneur whose work seamlessly blends technology and creativity. As the CEO and cofounder of Pinscreen, he leads advancements in generative AI for visual effects and interactive experiences.
His academic roles include serving as a Professor of Computer Vision at the Mohamed Bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence.
Hao's innovative contributions have been instrumental in films such as Blade Runner 2049 and Furious 7, and he has been recognised among MIT Technology Review's top 35 innovators under 35.
EPISODE 06: SOFTWARE: TURNING IMAGINATION INTO REALITY
In this episode, we sit down with Kim Davidson, co-founder and CEO of SideFX, the creators of Houdini; a tool that has become synonymous with innovation in the VFX industry.
Kim shares his journey from reimagining how artists approach their craft to pioneering procedural workflows that empower creators to push creative boundaries.
We’ll explore the role of software in bridging artistic vision with technical execution, the challenges developers face in staying ahead of the curve, and what the future holds for tools shaping the next generation of cinematic storytelling.
Kim Davidson
As the co-founder and CEO of SideFX, Kim has been instrumental in developing Houdini, the groundbreaking 3D animation software that has redefined what's possible in visual storytelling.
His journey from a childhood fascination with animation to leading a company that has garnered multiple Academy Awards is a testament to his relentless curiosity and innovative spirit.
EPISODE 07: HOW VFX SUPERVISORS TRANSFORM FILMS
In this episode of Pixel Puzzle, we delve into the creative mind of Julian Foddy, exploring his journey from the music industry to becoming a leading figure in visual effects.
We discuss the challenges and triumphs of bringing complex visual narratives to life, the evolution of VFX technology, and Julian's unique approach to integrating practical effects with digital artistry.
This conversation offers a rare glimpse into the meticulous craft of visual effects and the innovative spirit that drives it.
JULIAN FODDY
Julian Foddy is a Visual Effects Supervisor, renowned for his contributions to the visual effects industry. Since joining ILM's London studio in 2015, he has played pivotal roles in high-profile projects, including Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, Solo: A Star Wars Story, and Spider-Man: Far fromHome.
Notably, Julian's career is marked by a significant transition from a successful 15-year tenure in the music industry as an international DJ and record producer to the realm of digital visual effects, showcasing his versatile creative talents.
EPISODE 08- INSIDE THE WORLD OF A VFX PRODUCER
In this episode, we explore the delicate balance between creativity, logistics, and leadership in visual effects production with Terron Pratt, whose extensive career spans groundbreaking films like The Bourne Legacy and hit series including Stranger Things and the highly anticipated Dune: Prophecy.
Terron shares candid insights into managing complex collaborations, navigating intense deadlines, and nurturing the talent behind visual storytelling. Together, we uncover what it truly takes to lead large-scale VFX projects, highlighting the unseen strategies, decisions, and challenges behind some of today's most visually compelling stories.
TERRON PRATT
Terron Pratt is recognised for his meticulous attention to detail and his ability to seamlessly integrate visual effects into storytelling.
In his collaborations, he emphasises the importance of aligning VFX with the director's vision, ensuring that the effects enhance rather than overshadow the narrative.
EPISODE 09: A Cinematographer’s Guide to Integrating VFX Seamlessly
In this episode of Pixel Puzzle, we delve into the creative mind of Julian Foddy, exploring his journey from the music industry to becoming a leading figure in visual effects.
We discuss the challenges and triumphs of bringing complex visual narratives to life, the evolution of VFX technology, and Julian's unique approach to integrating practical effects with digital artistry.
This conversation offers a rare glimpse into the meticulous craft of visual effects and the innovative spirit that drives it.
ERIK MESSERSCHMIDT
Erik Messerschmidt, ASC, is an acclaimed American cinematographer renowned for his meticulous craftsmanship and innovative visual storytelling. His distinguished collaborations with director David Fincher include serving as director of photography for Mank and The Killer, as well as gaffer on Gone Girl.
Messerschmidt's exceptional work on Mank earned him both the Academy Award and the American Society of Cinematographers Award for Best Cinematography in 2021.
EPISODE 10: The Producer's Vision: How VFX Turns Good into Great
Coming soon
EPISODE 11: A Director’s Perspective on Visual Effects
Coming soon
EPISODE 12: A Coach’s Guide to Wellbeing
In this episode, Debra shares her journey fromVFX artist to coach, offering insights into the unique challenges faced by creative professionals. She discusses strategies for managing stress, overcoming burnout, and achieving a harmonious work-life balance.
Debra's expertise provides valuable guidance for anyone navigating the demanding landscape of the creative industries, emphasising the importance of mental health and personal fulfilment.
DEBRA COLEMAN
Debra Coleman is a seasoned visual effects (VFX) professional and accredited coach dedicated to enhancing well-being within the creative industries. With a 25-year career in VFX, including roles such as Global Head of Compositing at DNEG, Debra has contributed to over 100 projects and been part of Oscar and BAFTA-winning teams.
In 2021, she founded Open Frame Coaching to support VFX and creative professionals in achieving fulfilling careers balanced with personal well-being.
