Just the other day here on The Movie Blog we had a little discussion if visual effects artists who work on Animated Features should also be considered for the VFX Oscar right along with those who work on live action films. Personally, I think the answer to that question is yes, because the VFX artists get handed the footage just like they do in live action films, and then have to digitally put in the effects around the footage (animated footage or live action footage). Some people disagree, and I can understand why they think that way.
But it seems like the notion of VFX artists on animated films getting props right along side of those who work on live action is gaining popularity, and the Oscar short list has been revealed, and 2 animated films are on the list. Ratatouille and Beowulf.
Now, it’s a foregone conclusion what film will will best visual effects… or at least SHOULD win… Transformers. That’s a no brainer. However, I do think Beowulf deserves to be on this list. Forget for a moment about the animated characters and animated environments. The visual effects were pretty mind blowing and should be recognized.
Still, neither Beowulf or Ratatouille will actually get NOMINATED for the Oscar, since the 3 films will be Transformers, Pirates 3 and probably Spider-Man 3. But it’s good to see their inclusion on the short list.
