Blockbuster CGI
Rob Bryson has helped bring some of the most iconic movies of the last few years to the big screen in his role as a CGI compositor. Having worked for two of the world’s most successful visual effects companies, his project list includes War For the Planet Of The Apes, X-Men: Apocalypse, The Martian, Terminator: Genysis and Guardians Of The Galaxy.
Now based in New Zealand, University of Staffordshire alumnus pulls together various computer-generated components into a single scene for Weta Digital, the visual effects company co-founded by Lord of The Rings director Peter Jackson. Previously, Rob has worked for MPC (Moving Picture Company) London, which is responsible for the visual effects and post-production of some of the biggest box office hits of the last two decades.
He said: “I’m proud of my small contribution to all the movies I’ve worked on. VFX is a fascinating field, something that is undergoing constant evolution. The way it can be used in such diverse ways is inspiring – from simple set extensions and plate enhancements to full-CG shots. When used correctly, it can be such a powerful aide in the storytelling, whilst looking downright awesome in the process.”
Film Production degree
Rob grew up in Redhill, Surrey, where he initially took an interest in film. He studied film studies, media studies, psychology and biology at school before signing up to a Film Production BSc at University of Staffordshire. “I felt the course’s focus on the technology behind the creativity, while also including the creative aspect, was very interesting,” he recalled.
“Most other degrees of a similar nature offered only BAs, whereas a BSc gave me a more involved look at the whole film-making process. The way the course touched on so many different areas of film-making really appealed to me. It meant I was able to home in on exactly what it was I was most interested in and pursue that interest, both in my gap year and final year, as well as test out other areas I thought I might be interested in before starting work.”
After graduating, Rob worked in London as a runner and then joined MPC London, where he rose through the ranks. His roles included Data Wrangler and then Roto Prep Artist before starting in his current position as Compositor. After a few years, he transferred to the Montreal, Canada, branch of MPC, where he lived for two years. He then got offered a role at Weta Digital, in New Zealand, as an independent contractor, which he took at the end of 2016.
Move to New Zealand
“The moves to both Canada and New Zealand were extremely exciting – albeit nerve-wracking,” Rob said. “In both countries, I didn’t have any family, but I did at least have colleagues who I had worked with previously. That was fantastic; to have some form of familiarity as you learn to live in a new country.
“Part of the joy of this industry is how one has the opportunity to live and work in new countries. I believe this is something that can only enrich a person’s life. It would be different, of course, if I were transporting a family with me but, since it’s just me, I don’t have too many ties and can move where the work takes me.
“I can see myself living and working in New Zealand for a long time. I could stay in this position and be perfectly happy but, ultimately, there are a couple of options available to me. I am keen to continue upwards and, eventually, look after my own team of compositors as a supervisor. Beyond that, one could supervise an entire project at a VFX facility or work client-side to coordinate and supervise all the VFX houses working on a project.”
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