written by Beatrice Verhoeven, The Hollywood Reporter
The Visual Effects Society (VES) announced its nominees for the 2025 VES Awards, a celebration which annually “recognizes outstanding visual effects artistry and innovation in features animation, television, commercials, games and new media.”
Dune: Part Two led the film nominations with seven nods, while Shogun and The Penguin tie in the episodic field with four each. The Wild Robot led the animation field with five.
“The artistry, ingenuity and passion of visual effects practitioners around the world have come together to create remarkable imagery,” says Kim Davidson, VES Chair. “We are seeing best in class work that elevates the art of storytelling and exemplifies the spirit of innovation. The VES Awards is the only venue that showcases and honors these outstanding artists across a wide range of disciplines, and we are extremely proud of our nominees.”
The nominees in 25 categories were selected by VES members at 49 in-person and virtual panels around the world. The nominations protocol involves reviewing “before and after” images of each submission by a minimum of three judging panels.
“Whether it’s through a fully immersive environment, realistic characters, or jaw-dropping action sequences, visual effects artists continue to push the boundaries of creativity and transform the way stories are told,” adds Diana Colella, Executive Vice President of Media & Entertainment at Autodesk, sponsor of the VES-Autodesk Student Award. “This year’s student film submissions celebrate the technical talent and creativity of up-and-coming visual effects artists. Congratulations to all the student nominees.”
It was previously announced that Shogun star Hiroyuki Sanada will receive the VES Award for Creative Excellence, while VFX supervisor Takashi Yamazaki will receive the VES Visionary Award and VR/Immersive Technology pioneer Dr. Jacquelyn Ford Morie will receive the VES Georges Melies Award.
The 2025 VES Awards nominations come as awards announcements continue to be postponed amid the ongoing Los Angeles wildfires, including the Writers Guild and Producers Guild announcements. On Monday, the Oscars announced it would be extending its voting window until Jan. 19 and pushing back its nominations announcement for the second time, with this year’s nominees now set to be revealed on Jan. 23.
Outstanding Supporting Visual Effects in a Photoreal Episode
The Penguin; “Bliss“
Michelle Rose
Outstanding Supporting Visual Effects in a Photoreal Feature
Civil War
Michelle Rose
