Today I have an amazing guest, an exclusive of sorts, because he really hasn’t done many interviews over the years…. Namely ILM matte painter and Weta art director Michael Pangrazio. Now if you recognise that name you’ll know that Michael is responsible for some incredible works of art from Raiders of the Lost Ark, The Empire Strikes Back, Return of the Jedi, Dragon Slayer, Willow, it’s another long list. He also co-founded Matte World along with previous Filmumentaries Podcast guest Craig Barron, that’s episode 46 if you want to take a listen.
Michael is now based in Australia after working with Peter Jackson’s Weta in New Zealand for some 15 years. We spoke over Zoom in April 2022.
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Hi Jamie,
I’m currently listening to this episode now. I’m an artist and writer, and Mike Pangrazio has always been one of my favourite movie artists, ever since I saw his paintings in Raiders, Empire & Jedi, etc. I bought all the “making of” books when I was a kid, and was always amazed at the matte painting process. Painting on glass and filming through it blew my mind.
Great interview as always. I’m a movie-making geek and am slowly chipping my way through them all.
Cheers,
Matt Keegan
Really glad you found it and that you’re enjoying it. Thanks Matt.