Phantom Media Group Launches to Revolutionize the VFX Industry
In a bold move, India's Phantom Digital Effects is uniting powerhouse VFX houses under the new Phantom Media Group (PMG). This strategic alliance brings together Milk, Lola Post, Tippett Studio, PhantomFX, and Spectre Post, each renowned for their exceptional work in the film, TV, commercial, and immersive content industries.
The acquisition of UK-based indie companies Milk and Lola Post in July, and the 2024 acquisition of US-based Tippett Studio, marks a significant expansion for Phantom. Founded in 1984, Tippett Studio has an impressive portfolio, including work on the Star Wars franchise, Poker Face, and The Walking Dead. Meanwhile, Milk has contributed to iconic shows like Good Omens, Doctor Who, and 24: Live Another Day, while Lola Post has worked on The Reluctant Traveler and The Completely Made Up Adventures of Dick Turpin.
Despite the challenges faced by the global post-production and VFX industry, with companies like Technicolor collapsing and DNEG cutting staff, PMG emerges as a prominent player. CEO Bejoy Arputharaj emphasizes that PMG is not just a reaction to market trends but a proactive approach to shaping the future. He states, 'The past year has been tough for the film industry, but challenges make us rethink and build stronger. PMG is a testament to our legacy, innovation, and global collaboration.'
Each studio within PMG retains its unique approach and creative leadership, working collaboratively to deliver exceptional results for clients worldwide. With a diverse range of projects, including The Mandalorian, Good Omens Season 3, The Witcher Season 4, Ironheart, Walking with Dinosaurs, Creation of the Gods II: Demon Force, Star Wars: Skeleton Crew, and Alien: Romulus, PMG is poised to make a significant impact in the industry.
Arputharaj highlights the group's collective strength, stating, 'Each studio brings unique strengths, styles, and voices. Together, we expand our capabilities, fostering deeper creative partnerships and driving growth. This new chapter reflects our ambitions for the future.' COO Binu Joshua and Executive Vice President Ian Unterreiner further emphasize PMG's ability to combine scale, agility, and innovation, ensuring world-class creative standards for complex productions.
As PMG takes center stage, the industry eagerly anticipates the groundbreaking work that will emerge from this powerful alliance, solidifying its position as a leader in the VFX and animation space.