Say what you will about “Aquaman” (and boy, we have said quite a bit), but you can’t deny that there were a ton of quality digital effects seen on screen during its mammoth two-and-a-half hour runtime. Director James Wan challenged his VFX team with not only creating a fully realized world underwater, but actually multiple different regions, with new species and societies. In addition, there’s the typical superhero stuff above ground. And lastly, someone had to make Willem Dafoe and Nicole Kidman look 30 again.
Taking all that into consideration, it didn’t surprise anyone when “Aquaman” was on the initial list of potential Oscar nominees in the VFX category. However, when the shortlist was announced, “Aquaman” was snubbed. And according to a new Facebook post from Wan, the fact that the VFX team from his film won’t be at least nominated for an Academy Award is horrible. Well, he might have used more colorful language.
Kelvin McIlwain worked on “Aquaman” in the VFX department and commented on a Facebook status that the filmmaker posted about the superhero film hitting theaters. In the comment, McIlwain said, “Congrats James, It was such an honor to be a part of this creative endeavor and to work with you again. Cheers!!!!”
Wan replied, “Kelvin, you and your department are the unsung heroes of this film. The fact that your VFX peers in the Academy aren’t recognizing or appreciating what we/you’ve all contributed to the film and cinema is a fucking disgrace.”
READ MORE: The 20 Best Action Movies Of 2018
As mentioned above, we’ve talked quite a bit about “Aquaman,” both good and bad. And honestly, the film isn’t going to be nominated for any acting, directing, or Best Film Oscars anytime soon. So, the VFX category looked like an easy way for the Academy voters to recognize Wan’s film.
Even if you don’t think the CGI and effects were the best ever seen, the sheer amount of VFX on screen alone shows the gargantuan effort put on by the team behind the scenes. And in James Wan’s opinion (and ours as well), “Aquaman” should be recognized as one of the top VFX contenders of the year.
Hiya folks. Umm, so my little movie I’ve been working on for the last 3 years is finally out — tonight. Been a long…
Posted by James Wan on Thursday, December 20, 2018