Wondercon in Anaheim is a smaller convention attracting big name behind the scenes folks, perfect for individuals hoping to get their feet wet and learn about the entertainment industry and world behind it. There are a number of easily accessible panels about the nature of what it takes to make everything from music to the special effects that makes film and television possible. Nowhere was that more true than in Wondercon 2022 with panels like Impact24’s 2nd annual “It’s Alive!”: Designing Sci-Fi, Horror, and Comic Book Genre Film and TV.
The panel was moderated by actor Chris Villain, and featured the talents of Rebecca Hughes (co-writer, Studio 666), Jason Collins of Autonomous F/X (American Horror Story, Pam & Tommy, Blade Runner 2049), Matt Novack (composer, “Murderville”), and Jason Piccioni (American Horror Story, Castle Rock) and Kevin Yuille (Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., Raising Dion) of FuseFX.
Writer Rebecca Hughes shared that she was thrilled about the opportunity to combine genres in writing horror and comedy with Studio 666. Composer Matt Novack thought the same, “With comedy you score around jokes, the challenge comes in bringing in the darker elements with horror.”
FuseFX has played a big role in developing the signature look of the Marvel universe, especially in regards to fan-favorite show Agents of SHIELD. Everything from the look of ghost rider to the look of the Quinjet is largely thanks to VFX genius Mark Kolpack and the supervisors and fantastic designers at FuseFX. It goes to show you there’s no part too big or too small in the making of a movie or television show and behind the camera work can often shape the very fabric of a story as a whole.The panel ended with FuseFX visual supervisor Kevin Yuille calling for “more diverse voices in behind the scenes work.
“In a world where they say making a living as an artist is impossible, there are so many avenues and opportunities out there to have your voice heard and to make a living as an artist.”
Agents of SHIELD and by proxy Marvel has pushed for diversity in front of and behind the camera. It’s important to remind people of the need for that work and that those very same people are still calling for diverse voices. FuseFX and it’s partners are looking for people who can bring unique perspectives to creative work and build brave new worlds.
It’s a perfect opportunity to influence stories – and it’s desperately needed. It’s important to remember that fans make up the majority of those working in the business. Fans can do everything from shape worldbuilding to composition. There are opportunities to learn about that here. There’s no better opportunity to learn about that at places like Wondercon.
Agents of SHIELD is currently streaming on Disney+