ArsenalFX, a visual effects postproduction studio specializing in high-end commercial effects, has named Sean Starkweather as creative director.
Prior to joining ArsenalFX, Starkweather was a creative director at Stardust, finishing spots for brands such as Air Jordan, Samsung and Starbucks. Previously, he completed creative direction on campaigns for Toyota, Yahoo!, Blackberry RIM, Microsoft, Hyundai, U.S. Cellular and BP.
Starkweather studied Graphic Design at Art Center College of Design in Pasadena. After graduating in 2006, Starkweather worked as an art director and lead animator at motion design studios in Los Angeles, including Logan and Blind. He also worked on feature film main titles for “Up in the Air” and “The September Issue.”
“Prior to his start, we had enjoyed working with Sean on some wonderful projects,” said ArsenalFX EP Ashley Hydrick. “Simply put, we were impressed by his ability to introduce a endless stream of creative ideas and solutions.”
As a creative director with expertise in the full gamut of commercial production–from the concept and design phases through final finishing–Starkweather said,“My goal is to further our reach with clients in the design and graphics sectors. We’ve got an awesome team of artists and producers and I look forward to this new opportunity to work with them on a wide range of projects.”
Founded in Santa Monica by Mark Leiss in 2008, Arsenal FX has contributed visual effects to hundreds of commercial spots on behalf of such major clients as Sony, Coca-Cola, Dr. Pepper, Nike, Redbull, BMW, Bud Light, Hyundai, Audi, Lexus, Chevrolet, Mazda, McDonald’s, State Farm and U.S. Cellular.
“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