Avengers Endgame, Deadpool 2, Halo infinite and Gears 5 - some of the biggest entertainment phenomena in recent years and they all have one creative studio in common. This same studio counts Marvel, Netflix, Universal, LucasFilm, Apple, EA, Sony and Disney as among their core clients.
Nant Studios is renowned for its cutting-edge virtual production capabilities, blending traditional filmmaking with advanced technologies. And the company’s VP of Virtual Production Gary Marshall will be speaking at Big Data Belfast next week - now in its 10th outing, curated and presented once more by the team at Analytics Engines.
Gary will be joined on stage by Neil Bowden, AI Business Development Manager at Dell Technologies for a joint presentation on ‘AI and Tech Transforming Filmmaking’. The pair are among the high-profile keynotes getting the agenda underway during the event’s morning session.
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Gary is a leading figure in virtual production, playing a pivotal role in shaping how stories are told through innovative technology. He has been integral to groundbreaking projects, including ‘The Mandalorian’, where in-camera visual effects and LED wall technology revolutionised production. These innovations allow filmmakers to create immersive environments that transport audiences into new worlds.
“Our approach at Nant Studios is about constant innovation to democratise virtual production,” Gary says. “We aim to make these advanced technologies accessible to projects of all scales, which ultimately enhances the creative process.”
As he prepares to speak at Big Data Belfast, where he will join industry leaders to discuss the role of data in technology, Gary emphasises the significance of analytics in filmmaking.
“Data-driven decisions are transforming how we approach storytelling,” he says. “It’s not just about what looks good; it’s about understanding audience engagement and crafting narratives that resonate.”
For Neil Bowden, who will be joining Gary onstage, AI is “not just a trend - it's a fundamental shift in how organisations operate.”
“At Dell, we believe that leveraging AI can significantly enhance productivity, drive innovation, and create new opportunities across various sectors, including film and gaming," he says. “It’s crucial for leaders from all business areas to collaborate, ensuring that AI strategies resonate with organisational objectives and deliver tangible results."
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Gary is particularly excited about the potential of modular LED volumes (a realistic, immersive background wall for actors and cameras) being developed at NantStudios, which can be moved and configured on the fly. “This flexibility allows us to respond to creative needs instantly, which is a game-changer for production timelines and budgets,” he says.
The evolution of real-time rendering software is another trend that Gary sees as pivotal. “With constant advances in the quality of real-time rendering, we can display photoreal environments on volume, capturing as much of the final pixel in-camera as possible, while allowing for immediate adjustments and more informed creative choices,” he says. `
At Big Data Belfast, Gary will share insights into how emerging technologies are shaping the future of virtual production. “We are standing at the brink of a new era in filmmaking,” he says. “The integration of data analytics and virtual production will redefine storytelling. As we harness these tools, we will be able to create even more engaging and immersive experiences for audiences.”
Nant Studios has also established itself as a leader in innovation, partnering with companies like Epic Games to develop the latest in Unreal Engine technology. This collaboration enables filmmakers to explore new creative horizons.
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“Collaborations with technology leaders help us push the boundaries of what’s possible in virtual production. It’s about creating a robust ecosystem where creativity can thrive,” he says.
According to Neil Bowden, the potential of AI to “augment human capabilities” will “enable creators to push the boundaries of what's possible in film and gaming”.
"We are entering an era where AI will not just change our industries; it will lead to significant economic growth,” he says. “By embracing AI-driven solutions, we can unlock new opportunities for creativity and innovation that will shape the future of entertainment and beyond."
Gary’s participation at Big Data Belfast underscores not only the event’s significance, but also Northern Ireland’s growing reputation in the field. Developed by Ulster University in partnership with Belfast Harbour and supported by Northern Ireland Screen, Studio Ulster is a £72 million facility which aims to revolutionise the region's creative landscape. The studio will feature state-of-the-art facilities, including large-scale virtual production stages, a motion capture stage, and an integrated research and development lab.
“I’m looking forward to connecting with others who share a passion for innovation and exploring how we can drive the industry forward together,” says Gary.
Gary Marshall’s vision for the future of virtual production is clear: by combining creativity with data and emerging technologies, the film and entertainment industry can evolve to meet the demands of modern audiences. His insights will undoubtedly inspire attendees at Big Data Belfast and beyond, offering a glimpse into the future of storytelling.
Proudly supported by headline sponsor EY, #BDB2024 takes place at the ICC Waterfront on Wednesday October 23 and aims to foster meaningful dialogue and collaboration, equipping attendees with insights to drive transformative change across various sectors. The conference is also delighted to be supported by Aflac, NI, Allstate NI, Daily Pay, Dell Technologies, Microsoft, MCS Group, Rapid 7, Synechron, and Invest Northern Ireland.
Tickets are available now via www.bigdatabelfast.com
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