In a context marked by digital transformation and the emergence of new technologies, the media and entertainment industry is at a turning point. Are we facing a crisis or a new era of opportunities?

With the title Crisis? What crisis? we will analyze the present and take a glimpse at the future of the industry, focusing on the impact of new technologies and the challenges faced by VFX and animation professionals.

We will br joind by industry professionals who will share their knowledge and visions on the present and future of the sector. After the presentations, there will be a space for debate and interaction with the audience.

This round table is aimed at professionals in the VFX, animation, and digital sectors, researchers, production companies, streaming platforms, investors, and anyone interested in the creative industry.

Moderated and presented by:

Carolina López, director of Animac, Mostra Internacional de Cinema d’Animació de Catalunya, Co-director of the Master in Digital Animation and Emerging Technologies at CITM (UPC) and curator of ANIMARIO, International Festival of Contemporary Animation of Madrid.

Presenters at the table:

• Felix Balbas, Director of  MínimoVFX and the Animation & VFX Undergraduate Degree at LaSalle, Ramon Llull University

• David Ramos, Creative VFX Supervisor at El Ranchito

• Olaia Casal, Head of Production at Glassworks Barcelona (recently renamed MELT)

• Bernat Aragonés, Film editor & vfx supervisor. Co-founder of Antaviana Films

• Jorge Oliva, Creative director of Milk VFX Barcelona

• Michael Elson, Executive Producer, VFX Supervisor at The Frank Trading Company and founder and former COO at MPC

We will address key issues such as:

• The impact of the strikes by Hollywood scriptwriters and actors: direct consequences on production, impact on creativity, and the quality of productions.

• Mass layoffs and restructuring: reasons behind the layoffs in large VFX, videogame, and animation studios and companies, consequences for workers and the industry in general.

• The impact of artificial intelligence: Does AI represent a threat or an opportunity for creatives?

• The future of VFX and animation: opportunities and challenges for professionals in the sector, new production and distribution models, the importance of training and adaptation to changes.