In an exclusive interview with Erik Winquist, the VFX supervisor for the Planet of the Apes franchise, we delve into the remarkable journey of visual effects technology and its impact on the depiction of apes in cinema. From the rebooted “Rise of the Planet of the Apes” to the latest installment, “Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes,” Winquist provides a behind-the-scenes look at how VFX has evolved and the challenges faced in bringing these iconic characters to life. As the franchise continues to push boundaries, we also explore the role of Artificial Intelligence in modern filmmaking and Winquist’s reflections on global cinema.
The Fascination with Apes: A Deep Connection
Understanding the Appeal
Erik Winquist’s work on the Planet of the Apes franchise and other projects like Peter Jackson’s “King Kong” (2005) and Brad Peyton’s “Rampage” (2018) highlights the enduring allure of apes in popular culture. According to Winquist, the fascination with these creatures stems from their close genetic relationship to humans. “We can tell stories that are of a very human nature, but without visual humans on screen,” he explains. Apes, sharing 98% of our DNA, evoke a profound sense of connection, as anyone who has locked eyes with an orangutan or chimpanzee can attest.
The Evolution of VFX: From Rise to Kingdom
Technological Advancements Over the Years
Winquist reflects on the progression of VFX technology from “Rise of the Planet of the Apes” (2011) to “Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes.” He notes that what was once considered cutting-edge now appears dated compared to the advancements in rendering and animation technology. “We thought [Rise] looked so amazing at the time, and now it feels a little dated,” Winquist says. With each film, the technology has evolved, resulting in more realistic, engaging, and believable depictions of the apes.
The New Era of Aesthetic Design
“Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes” marks a significant shift in the franchise’s visual style. Unlike the previous installments with their soft lighting and forested settings, this film embraces a new aesthetic with bright sunshine and handheld cameras. Winquist describes the challenge of designing the film’s aesthetic, noting, “We introduced 12 new hero characters, all of whom speak, requiring high-fidelity facial animation.” The film also includes complex underwater sequences, adding a new dimension to the VFX work.
Lessons from Avatar: Applying Knowledge to Apes
Insights from James Cameron’s Groundbreaking Work
Winquist’s experience on James Cameron’s “Avatar” (2009) has been instrumental in shaping his approach to VFX. Cameron’s meticulous attention to detail and his drive to push the boundaries of technology have left a lasting impact on Winquist. “Jim Cameron probably knows more about everyone’s jobs than they do,” he says. This philosophy of continuous improvement and surpassing previous achievements has guided Winquist in his work on the Planet of the Apes franchise.
On-Ground Research vs. Studio Work
Balancing Fieldwork and Studio-Based Creation
Winquist shares insights into the balance between on-ground research and studio work. While much of the VFX process occurs in the studio, Winquist values fieldwork for authentic references. For instance, he photographed an orangutan in Germany for inspiration for the character Raka. “By the time we’re getting things turned over to us, we’re very studio-based,” he explains. However, he emphasizes the importance of real-world references, citing a beach shoot in Wellington for seagull sequences as an example of hands-on research.
The Role of AI in Modern Filmmaking
Embracing Machine Learning as a Creative Tool
Artificial Intelligence and machine learning are transforming the VFX industry. Winquist discusses the use of machine learning in capturing and processing actors’ facial performances, which assists animators in focusing on emotional nuances rather than foundational work. “We’re using machine learning as a way to record footage of the actors’ faces,” he explains. While AI tools can enhance efficiency, Winquist stresses that they should complement, not replace, human creativity in filmmaking.
Global Cinema: Indian VFX Highlights
Impressions of Indian Films and VFX
Winquist acknowledges the impressive VFX work in Indian cinema. He praises “RRR” for its bold visual style and highlights Dev Patel’s “Monkey Man” for its engaging VFX moments. “That was his first directorial movie, and it had some fun VFX moments,” he notes. Winquist’s appreciation for global cinema reflects the diverse influences that shape modern VFX practices.
The Journey of VFX and Cinema
The evolution of VFX in the Planet of the Apes franchise showcases the industry’s remarkable progress and the creative challenges that come with it. Erik Winquist’s insights into the development of visual effects technology, the impact of AI, and the importance of real-world research provide a comprehensive view of the art and science behind bringing these iconic characters to life. As “Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes” continues to captivate audiences, Winquist’s work exemplifies the fusion of innovation and creativity that defines modern cinema.
With the franchise’s legacy firmly established and new technologies on the horizon, the future of VFX in film promises even more exciting developments. Whether through advancements in technology or the influence of global cinema, the journey of visual effects continues to shape the way we experience stories on screen.
