As Technicolor Flounders, VFX artists at The Mill U.S. Start A New Chapter With Dream Machine FX (EXCLUSIVE)

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In the face of financial struggles, the multinational corporation Technicolor—encompassing prominent visual effects brands MPC (“Mufasa”) and short-form VFX studio The Mill—has initiated closures of certain business sectors. However, the creative leadership along with almost the entire creative workforce from what was once Technicolor’s U.S.-based The Mill are transitioning and teaming up to establish a new joint venture called Arc Creative, in partnership with Dream Machine FX.

Last Friday, we were informed in unison that after 35 years of groundbreaking creativity, The Mill will be closing permanently this coming Monday [Feb. 24]. This decision is a result of the ongoing financial difficulties that Technicolor has faced over the years,” the more than 100 artists who used to work at The Mill U.S. stated in a joint communique to EbMaster. “This news took us by surprise, and since then, we’ve been grappling with various emotions such as shock, anger, sadness, worry, but also determination. Although the physical location of The Mill is no more, its essence, its zeal, and its heritage continue to thrive through its remarkable and gifted employees. In truth, it was always the people that made The Mill truly extraordinary.

As part of the Dream Machine FX family, I’m proud to be associated with an umbrella company that houses some of the most talented Visual Effects (VFX) brands in the industry. For instance, there’s Important Looking Pirates, whose impressive portfolio includes “Shogun,” Fin, known for “The Creator,” Zero VFX, renowned for “Challengers,” and Mavericks VFX, who have made their mark with “The Handmaid’s Tale.”

Now, we’re about to embark on a new venture – Arc Creative. Our primary mission is to excel in short-form projects, specifically high-end advertising, game cinematics, and trailers. We’re excited about this new chapter and can’t wait to see what the future holds!

In their statement, the artists expressed their ambition to construct something exceptional with Arc Creative, a project that reflects the faith our clients have in us and aligns with the quality of creative workspace The Mill has consistently offered to top-tier artists within the industry. The Mill’s foundation is rooted in two crucial values: consistently delivering superior creativity and nurturing an environment that encourages artistic growth. We are confident that Dream Machine will be our ideal ally in preserving this legacy, guided by longstanding associates and collaborators whom we have worked with for many years.

The goal is to ensure a seamless transition despite the potential difficulties arising from Technicolor’s Chapter 7 process. With the support of our allies at Dream Machine, we are committed to safeguarding the skills and reputation we’ve built over the years.

Arc Creative’s team comprises the executive creative directors of The Mill U.S., Robert Sethi and Gavin Wellsman, along with managing directors Angela Lupo and Anastasia von Rahl. Their creative directors include Ilya Abulkhavov, James Allen, Jimmy Bullard, David Lawson, John Leonti, Tom Mccullough, and Thiago Porto. In simpler terms, the team at Arc Creative is made up of key personnel from The Mill U.S., such as Robert Sethi, Gavin Wellsman, Angela Lupo, Anastasia von Rahl, Ilya Abulkhavov, James Allen, Jimmy Bullard, David Lawson, John Leonti, Tom Mccullough, and Thiago Porto.

The team is composed of VFX supervisors such as Antoine Douadi, Anthony Jones, Eva Kuehlmann, Yarin Manes, Nhat Tran, Graeme Turnbull, along with nine executive producers and ten department heads, which includes those in charge of 2D and 3D.

David Li, chairman of Dream Machine, expressed deep sadness over the closure of The Mill, stating it’s a significant loss for the entire industry. He described The Mill U.S. as not just a creative powerhouse but also a sanctuary for some of the most innovative minds in our field. He was honored that Robert, Gavin, Anastasia, and Angela chose Dream Machine to embark on this new venture, and he’s thrilled to aid them and all the gifted individuals as they carry on The Mill’s legacy, creating Arc Creative. He warmly invites them into the Dream Machine family.

As a follower, I’m part of an organization that previously established strong foundations in Los Angeles and New York. Currently, our team is diligently working towards expanding our presence in both these vibrant cities.

After facing difficulties, Technicolor marks the conclusion of The Mill’s successful journey. Established in London during 1990, The Mill was a prominent visual effects (VFX) company, renowned for its work in commercial and advertising projects, earning numerous accolades such as Cannes Lions, Clios, and Visual Effects Society Awards. In its earlier days, The Mill even dabbled in feature films, serving notably as the primary VFX studio for the 2000’s Academy Award-winning film “Gladiator.

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2025-02-24 23:18