104 – Ahsoka – VFX and Sound – With Richard Bluff and Matthew Wood

For episode 104, I spoke with ILM’s VFX Supervisor, Richard Bluff and Skywalker Sound’s Matthew Wood about their work on the Disney+ series, Ahsoka.

Links
Apple – Spotify

Key takeaways:

• The collaboration between sound and visual effects departments is crucial in creating a cohesive and immersive experience for the audience.
• Early involvement of sound in the production process helps inform the visuals and enhances the storytelling.
• The use of practical effects, such as miniatures, can provide a unique and grounded look to the visuals.
• Designing and creating sound for ships in the Star Wars universe involves a balance between familiar elements and new, unique sounds.
• The organic and mysterious nature of the Eye of Sion and the witches’ voices in Ahsoka adds depth and intrigue to the storytelling.
• The balance between using technology and practical effects is a constant consideration in visual effects production. The use of LED screens allowed for interactive lighting and realistic reflections in the visual effects of ‘The Mandalorian’ and ‘The Book of Boba Fett’.
• Collaboration between the visual effects and sound departments was crucial in creating the desired effects and atmosphere for the shows.
• The Howlers were created using a combination of motion bases, horses, and visual effects to achieve a realistic and dynamic performance.
• The creative team is constantly looking for new techniques and technologies to improve the visual effects and sound design of the series.