Editor Val Thrasher has joined The Den. Thrasher, who had previously been at Nomad, has cut award-winning campaigns for directors including Lance Acord and Phil Morrison and for global brands such as Apple, Facebook, Vans, Target, and Honda. She is well known for her ability to work across all genres: comedy, dialogue, and visual storytelling. Perhaps her most recognizable work is the iconic Mac Vs. PC campaign for Apple.
Rachel Seitel, co-founder of The Den, said of Thrasher, “This marks an exciting new chapter in her career and we’re happy to be a part of it, Her work speaks for itself, and her enthusiasm for the work is contagious. She’s been expanding her interests into other kinds of more visual work like fashion and longer format films.”
Thrasher shared, “The pandemic definitely acted as a catalyst to drive me forward toward a new challenge. The timing was perfect for a change and everyone at The Den really inspires me. And what’s not to love about Rachel, she’s a force! She has a real vision and such great taste. The Den is leading the charge–woman-owned and with an incredibly talented, diverse roster. I’m elated to join this team and be a part of their culture.”
Vic Palumbo, president and managing director of The Den, said, “Val and I started working together on Nike projects during her time at Rock Paper Scissors many moons ago, so this is full circle for us. It’s amazing to be working with her again, especially now that we are at The Den together. She is a special talent who has done amazing work throughout her career, and an even more amazing person.”
The Den, which launched last year, has expanded notably in recent months, adding Palumbo, and Michael “Middy” Ofori-Attah and Matthew Hilber as editors. The Den’s roster of talent includes Thrasher, “Middy,” Hilber, Christjan Jordan, Tobias Suhm, Kate Owen, Andrew Ratzlaff, Katie Cali and Ross Birchall.
“Dune: Part Two” and “House of the Dragon” Win 2 HPA Awards Apiece
Dune: Part Two and House of the Dragon each scored two HPA Awards during a gala ceremony at the Television Academy’s Wolf Theatre in North Hollywood, Calif. on Thursday night (11/7). The HPA Awards honor trailblazing talent in the postproduction industry, celebrating standout achievements in color grading, sound, editing, restoration, and visual effects across theatrical features, commercials, and episodics.
Dune: Part Two topped the Outstanding Color Grading--Live Action Theatrical Feature and the Outstanding Sound--Theatrical Feature categories.
House of the Dragon’s two wins were for “The Red Dragon and the Gold” episode which scored for Outstanding Visual Effects--Live Action Episode or Series Season, and Outstanding Editing--Episode or Non-Theatrical Feature (Over 30 Minutes). In the latter HPA Creative Category, House of the Dragon tied with the “Part Six: Far,l Far Away” episode of Ahsoka.
The HPA’s Judges Award for Creativity and Innovation honored Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour. This recognition celebrates the profound impact on both live and filmed entertainment that defined The Eras Tour, underscoring its exceptional impact on audiences and the industry. The jury issued a statement outlining their choice: “Celebrated as the cultural phenomenon of 2023, Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour set new records in box office sales, tour revenues, and attendance. The tour showcased exceptional artistry and innovation, making a profound impact on both live and filmed entertainment.”
This year, FotoKem was awarded the Charles S. Swartz Award for its role in supporting filmmakers, studios, cinematographers, and artists across diverse film and media landscapes. Also celebrated... Read More