CMU School of Drama


Tuesday, February 06, 2018

Spotlight – Joe Bauer

Cinefex Blog: As production visual effects supervisor on HBO’s epic television show Game of Thrones, Joe Bauer leads teams of artists around the world to bring the fantasy realm of Westeros to life – including its ever-maturing contingent of fire-breathing dragons.

2 comments:

Rebecca Meckler said...

What a great opportunity to give credit to someone who may not have otherwise gotten in. Visual effects teams are not always honored like actors and directors, so it is nice to see them get credit. I loved the moment where Bauer says that the thing that makes him smile the most is watching reactions to his work. This article is filled with lovely antidotes that are light and easy to read. I think it's interesting that a guy who main job is making fantasy objects, advice is to study photography and see the world. Bauer says that if we can not see the world the way it is, we can not manipulate and use it the way we want. I do wish the article went more into depth about on some of the deeper questions, such as Bauer’s advice in the business and what changes he wants to see in the world of visual effects. Overall, I enjoyed this interview. It is light and entertaining to read.

Katie Pyzowski said...

"There’s no harm in making each and every visual effects shot a masterwork." This is the line that stuck out to me the most in this interview. The TV and film world is ridiculed for its detail and accuracy since it is under such close visual scrutiny. This detail is everything in visual effects work. Like Bauer mentions, you do not see mismatched colors in the effects you see on TV. This is because of the deep level of dedication visual artist put into their work. Having the knowledge and background of photography and other visual arts adds a whole other level to the work that they do. It is another tool in the tool box that enhances the "masterwork" of every piece created. I also second Bauer's point on how artists are treated. To often are artists from all areas of the art world not supported and accommodated sufficiently for the specialized work that they do. I too hope that the industry and economy will change to make art a career that can suitably support the people who choose it.