Mikros Image, now known as MPC Paris, played a crucial role in the visual effects (VFX) production of the film “Santa and Cie” directed by Alain Chabat. Hugues Namur, the VFX Supervisor at Mikros Image, led the team through a demanding process that included integrating extensive VFX elements seamlessly into the film.

The collaboration began when the production sought a French studio capable of handling the film’s VFX requirements. Fred Groetschel, an executive producer at Mikros Image, facilitated the initial contact. Hugues Namur and his team quickly became involved after reading the script and providing a preliminary estimate. Despite the challenge of a tight schedule, their enthusiasm for the project was high.

Alain Chabat, known for his innovative use of VFX, was deeply involved in the process. He visited the set to ensure specific material was captured for VFX purposes and provided feedback during work-in-progress reviews. Chabat’s approach emphasized realism and subtle humor, avoiding overly cartoonish elements even in fantastical scenes.

The primary focus of Mikros Image’s work was on the reindeers and their interactions with Santa’s sled. This included creating CG reindeers that matched the physical characteristics of those filmed on set, from fur texture to antler size. Rigging and animation were meticulously handled to ensure natural movements, including simulating the dynamics of muscles and fur using advanced techniques in Maya and Yeti.

The team also tackled complex environments such as the Champs Elysées, using a combination of matte paintings and CG elements to extend and enhance the settings realistically. Tools were developed in Houdini to manage the scale and detail of these environments, ensuring flexibility for the director’s creative adjustments.

One of the standout challenges was the storm sequence, where Santa navigates through turbulent weather. This required intricate FX work for rain and clouds, integrating seamlessly with live-action elements. The team also developed a unique “stealth mode” effect for Santa’s sled, reminiscent of iconic cinematic visual effects.

Throughout the production, weekly meetings with Bryan Jones, the overall VFX supervisor, ensured alignment on creative and technical aspects. This collaborative effort involved a large team of up to 60 artists at its peak, dedicating nearly a year to completing over 240 VFX shots.

Overall, Mikros Image’s work on “Santa and Cie” demonstrated their expertise in handling complex VFX challenges while maintaining creative integrity and meeting tight production deadlines. Their contribution not only enhanced the film’s visual spectacle but also enriched its storytelling with seamlessly integrated fantastical elements.

Alain Chabat, the director and actor of the film Santa et Cie talks about his collaboration with the MPC Paris teams:

What are 3 words to describe Mikros (MPC Paris) VFX? Magic, Magic & Magic!”

Alain Chabat, Director

Working on this film has been a long and beautiful adventure for the MPC Paris team. Our teams speak best of it!
Read the testimonies of Hugues Namur (VFX Supervisor), Lucie Bories (Compositing Supervisor), Christophe ‘Tchook’ Courgeau (Digital Set Supervisor), Eric ‘Janine Smith’ Lautard (CG Supervisor) and Alexandre Sauthier (Animator & Rigging) about their work on Santa & Cie:

Discover their work here: