Mon Sep 09 16:10:54 UTC 2024: ## “Ripley” VFX Supervisor Calls for Unionization as Team Wins Emmy

**Los Angeles, CA** – John Bowers, VFX supervisor for the Emmy-winning Netflix miniseries “Ripley,” used his acceptance speech at the Peacock Theater to call for unionization in the visual effects industry. Bowers, speaking on behalf of the team behind the show’s stunning visual effects, highlighted the lack of standard protections for VFX artists, including fair wages, working conditions, and healthcare.

“Hollywood is heavily unionized, but there’s still no broad union for visual effects artists,” said Bowers. He noted that while progress is being made, with groups like Marvel Studios and Walt Disney Pictures’ in-house VFX workers voting to unionize under IATSE, the fight for fair treatment is ongoing.

“Progress is happening, and people are working behind the scenes,” Bowers emphasized. “I’m cheering them on and wanted everyone else in the room to support that as well.”

The Emmy-winning episode of “Ripley” involved the work of 300 artists across six countries and four continents, showcasing the vast scope and complexity of VFX work. “Ripley” VFX producer Maricel Pagulayan acknowledged the tireless efforts of the artists, saying, “It’s really the artist… You really have to acknowledge all the people, many people, below the line.”

Bowers’ call for unionization reflects a growing movement within the VFX community to demand greater recognition and protection for their vital contributions to filmmaking.

Read More