With a staggering 335 VFX shots, the teams demonstrated exceptional skill in bringing this ambitious project to life. Under the VFX supervision of Cédric Fayolle, the team included Rodolphe Zirah (VFX Supervisor), Christophe “Tchook” Courgeau (Environments Supervisor), Lise Fischer (2D Supervisor), and Yann Nivet (VFX Producer). Their combined efforts ensured a seamless blend of physical and digital elements, maintaining the film’s visual coherence and immersive aesthetic.
The Vision Behind Emilia Pérez
From the outset, director Jacques Audiard envisioned a unique, stylized world for his operatic film. To achieve this, the decision was made to shoot most scenes against bluescreens, providing full creative control over the environment, lighting, and atmosphere. As Fayolle explained, this approach allowed them to craft a fully immersive universe inspired by both the Mexican landscape and the production designer’s vision.
Challenges and Technical Feats
Creating realistic digital environments presented several hurdles. Whether extending physical sets, managing light continuity, or integrating CG elements with live-action footage, the MPC teams showcased meticulous planning and innovative techniques.
- Lighting and Continuity: The bluescreen setup required precise control of lighting to mimic natural conditions. Environments Supervisor Christophe “Tchook” Courgeau emphasized the importance of extrapolating light and ensuring seamless integration between physical and digital sets.
- Tracking and Composition: Advanced technologies like LIDAR scans, HDR imaging, and photogrammetry ensured accuracy in scaling and movement. The compositing team, led by Fischer, worked tirelessly to blend elements with subtle yet essential details like shadows and reflections, creating visually coherent and emotionally resonant scenes.
- Key Sequences: Highlights included the entirely CG final car sequence and the transformation of a French quarry into a vibrant Mexican desert for the Taqueria scene. These moments showcase the team’s ability to adapt and innovate while remaining true to the narrative’s essence.
A Team Effort
Throughout the production, collaboration was key. The VFX team worked closely with the director, production designer, cinematographer, and colorists to ensure the digital extensions aligned with the film’s creative vision. Whether sculpting light for stylized atmospheres or adapting digital sets to enhance performances, every department contributed to a unified and striking cinematic experience.
The Final Result
From concept to completion, Emilia Pérez is a testament to the artistry and technical expertise of MPC Paris. As Rodolphe Zirah reflected, the full CG ending sequence exemplifies the film’s ambition, immersing viewers in a visually stunning and narratively impactful conclusion.
To explore the full interview and gain more insights into the making of Emilia Pérez, visit the original article on Art of VFX. Special thanks to Vincent Frei for this insightful interview and for highlighting the incredible work of the MPC Paris team.
