The world-class visual effects of Melbourne animation studio Iloura will go on display this week as The SpongeBob Movie: Sponge Out of Water opens in cinemas from Thursday.
Selected from a shortlist of international companies, South Melbourne’s own Iloura was chosen to transform the SpongeBob characters from their regular 2D animated state into a 3D lifelike state for the first time.
Minister for Creative Industries Martin Foley congratulated the team at Iloura for their part in the major Hollywood feature, which seamlessly integrates computer-generated imagery (CGI) animation with live-action sequences and sees SpongeBob and his friends emerge from the ocean onto dry land.
Iloura’s CGI work also includes the superhero versions of the characters, seagulls, and the ship that belongs to Burger Beard (Antonio Banderas).
The SpongeBob Movie: Sponge Out of Water has so far grossed more than $US 270 million worldwide since its release in February. It is the first feature for the animated film division of Paramount Pictures and was supported by the Victorian Government through Film Victoria’s Production Incentive Attraction Fund for Post Production, Digital and Visual Effects (VFX).
Quotes attributable to Minister for Creative Industries Martin Foley
“It is wonderful to see Victorian talent making an impact locally and across the globe. This package of work created more than 100 employment opportunities for Victorians and over $15 million flowed back into the state economy.”
”The creative capacity of Victoria’s post production and VFX facilities highlights the growing opportunities for the Victorian film industry and international studios, resulting in increased employment and business outcomes for local practitioners, which benefits the industry as a whole.”
Quotes attributable to Film Victoria CEO Jenni Tosi
“The dedication, imagination and talent of the team at Iloura demonstrates the amazing work that can be realised right here in our backyard. They and other companies in Victoria are consistently raising the bar.”
“Our incentives, combined with Victoria’s reputation as a creative hub, continue to make Melbourne a very attractive option for international productions of all kinds.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020