Performance capture is one of the most exciting new tools available to filmmakers this century. But, if you’re an up and coming cinematic storyteller, how can you use it in your own filmmaking? IndieWire’s Future of Filmmaking Summit, taking place in Los Angeles on November 2 has you covered.
We are honored to welcome the team behind this year’s blockbuster smash, “Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes,” for a dynamic panel about the ins-and-outs of performance capture. At the heart of the conversation will be how they used these innovative tools to elicit profound emotion, to create deep connections between the film‘s characters and the audience. Roger Ebert always said movies are an empathy machine: The performance capture artistry in “Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes” showed how true that is.
In attendance from the film will be director Wes Ball, visual effects supervisor Erik Winquist, and actor Kevin Durand.
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Ball previously directed the “Maze Runner” trilogy, and he brought a unique humanity to the simians of “Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes,” building off the trilogy of films that ended with 2017’s “War for the Planet of the Apes.” Ball’s film takes place much closer to the time of the original “Planet of the Apes,” with humans having receded far into the background as the apes have solidified their control of the planet. Winquist brought this universe to life through his emotion-centric performance capture tech, building off his previous work for “Dawn of the Planet of the Apes,” for which he received an Oscar nomination for Best Visual Effects. And Durand brings Shakespearean grandeur to his role of Proximus Caesar, a ruthless ape monarch in search of ancient human technology.
Network with industry peers, exchange ideas, and spark inspiration throughout the summit. With a premium breakfast, lunch, and cocktail reception included, this is more than just a day of learning — it’s a chance to form meaningful connections that could shape the future of your next project.
Don’t miss your chance to join this forward-looking conversation and position yourself for success in the ever-changing world of entertainment.
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Panels will include:
Keynote Chat: Sean Baker
Award-winning Auteur, Sean Baker, will deliver our Future of Filmmaking Summit’s keynote chat. Baker, who recently took home the Palme d’Or at Cannes for his celebrated film “Anora,” a strong contender this awards season, will share his advice to summit attendees and his thoughts about the future of the industry.
Shooting Outside Hollywood: Challenges, Opportunities, and Passports
Runaway production has been atomized as states and countries compete to offer producers the hottest deals. Join Paul Audley, President of FilmLA and an IndieWire editor, discuss what it means for the rest of us.
How to Get Your Film Seen: New Takes on Audience, Funding, and Buyers
This one has it all: Exclusive research, real numbers, and the unexpected opportunities in theaters and at home for filmmakers who have found a world beyond the competitive festival circuit. Keri Putnam (former Sundance Institute CEO) and Brian Newman (founder of Sub-Genre) will share intel on emerging strategies and success stories, providing key insights into how filmmakers can thrive in today’s ever-changing distribution landscape.
From Indie Films to Pixar: A Career Case Study with Mike Jones
Join us as we explore the remarkable career of Mike Jones, tracing his early days in the indie film scene to his transition into a full-time role at Pixar and the creator of Disney+ series “Dream Productions.” This panel will dive into the challenges, creative risks, and breakthrough moments that shaped his path as a storyteller. Discover how his perseverance and indie sensibilities influenced his work at one of the world’s most renowned animation studios, and learn key insights for filmmakers looking to make their mark in both independent and mainstream cinema.
Pitching Your Project: Why Producers Now Expect More
Reby Silverman, Senior Manager, Global Partnerships at Canva will take the stage alongside emerging and established filmmakers to showcase how Canva’s platform is transforming the way filmmakers pitch their ideas. Learn directly from the pros and get insider tips to craft a pitch deck that stands out in today’s competitive industry!
How Filmmakers Are — and Aren’t — Using AI
Every day brings another AI announcement, but our panel will look beyond the money, the controversy, and the hype to discuss the ideas and products most likely to be meaningful for you. AI guru Dave Clark and and Erik Weaver, Director, Adaptive Production at ETC, will unpack this hot topic, exploring how AI tools are already reshaping the creative process, from scriptwriting to post-production, and what the future holds for filmmakers looking to leverage this technology in practical and innovative ways.
The Future of Film Is Interactive
A panel with the heads of KINO, Austin Worrell, Brit MacRae and Daril Fannin, who will discuss their company’s cutting-edge technology that offers filmmakers an interactive social streaming platform that provides invaluable data insights and a strategic launchpad to connect with their audience. Moderated by IndieWire’s SVP and Editor in Chief, Dana Harris-Bridson.
Award Season Stories – Disney: Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes
Discover how Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes uses performance capture to bring complex, emotionally rich characters to life. This panel features the film’s creative team and actors, sharing insights on how cutting-edge technology and powerful performances drive the storytelling in this awards season contender.
Wes Ball
Director
Erik Winquist
Visual Effects Supervisor
Kevin Durand
Actor
