Tune into our DNEG D-TALES podcast!

Hosted by DNEG Animation's Andrew Schlussel (Senior Director, Training & Development), each episode features crew members from across DNEG’s global VFX and Animation teams, shining a spotlight on the craft and passion behind their work.

From artists and animators to technologists and producers, every episode offers a chance to find out more about the teams, the processes and the unique career journeys of the people that shape the work that DNEG creates!

Scroll to discover the stories, magic – and personalities – behind our teams' incredible work.

Creative Director Philippe Denis sits down with Lead Lighting TD Elisa Sanguin to discuss his journey into animation, from studying mechanical engineering and working in architecture to helping shape some of the most influential CG films of the last 25 years. Along the way, Philippe reflects on the importance of adaptability, the value of a generalist mindset, and the lessons learned from helping build DNEG Animation. Together, they explore creative leadership, mentorship, problem-solving, and how passions outside of work—from cycling to jazz guitar—continue to influence Philippe's approach to storytelling and creativity.

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Aditya Deosthale "AD" shares his unconventional journey from civil engineering and business operations into the world of feature animation production. Drawing on experiences shaped by a childhood spent moving across India and a career spanning more than two decades, AD reflects on the value of adaptability, structured problem-solving, and people-first leadership. The conversation explores team culture, collaboration, morale, and why supporting the people behind the work is often the most important part of delivering a successful film.

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VFX Supervisor Archie Donato reflects on his 30-year career in animation and visual effects, from his early years at DreamWorks to helping lead the creative and technical evolution of stylized animation at DNEG Animation. Drawing on his experiences working on projects such as Entergalactic and Nimona, Archie discusses the importance of experimentation, collaboration, and challenging established conventions to create something truly unique. The conversation also explores leadership, the relationship between art and technology, the future of AI in animation, and the value of maintaining creative curiosity both inside and outside the studio.

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VFX Supervisor Anelia "Nelly" Asparuhova reflects on her unconventional journey into visual effects and the experiences that shaped her 25-year career. From holding 13 different jobs in a single year to tackling a "sink or swim" first animation assignment, Nelly shares how resilience, adaptability, and curiosity helped her navigate the industry. The conversation explores creative problem-solving, leadership, networking, overcoming imposter syndrome, and the inspiration she continues to draw from the natural world. Through stories ranging from nuclear explosions to one-eyed cyclopses, Nelly offers a thoughtful perspective on growth, confidence, and embracing challenges throughout a creative career.

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Taylor Moll reflects on her unique journey into animation, from an early interest in genetics and working as a wedding photographer to becoming a VFX Supervisor at DNEG Animation. As one of the founding members of the animation department, Taylor shares her experiences helping grow the studio, leading teams on acclaimed projects including Ron's Gone Wrong, Nimona, The Garfield Movie, and That Christmas, and exploring new creative workflows through Unreal Engine. The conversation explores leadership, confidence, innovation, and the value of embracing challenges as opportunities for growth.

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Ted Ty, Global Head of Character Animation at DNEG Animation, sits down with Junior Animator Immy Goodman to discuss his journey from studying communications and considering law school to building a career in animation after attending CalArts. Ted reflects on the value of mentorship, the importance of honest and constructive feedback, and why strong relationships, listening, and consideration are some of the most valuable skills a leader can develop. Together, they explore collaboration, artistic growth, and the pursuit of authentic self-expression, concluding with Ted's favourite piece of wisdom: "Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better."

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VFX Supervisor Giacomo Mineo shares his unconventional journey from graffiti artist in Milan to supervising visual effects on films such as Oppenheimer, Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga, and The Odyssey. Reflecting on his experiences in commercial post-production and feature filmmaking, Giacomo discusses the importance of passion, craftsmanship, problem-solving, and community in building a successful career. He also explores the role of collaboration in visual effects, his philosophy of leading through trust and respect, and why he views emerging technologies like AI as an exciting opportunity for the future of the industry.

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In our very first episode of DNEG D-TALES, Denis-Jose Francois (VFX Supervisor, DNEG Animation) reflects on a career that spans technical illustration, software development, visual effects, and animation. He shares how early exposure to groundbreaking video game experiences like 'Myst' inspired him to pursue a more creative path, eventually leading to roles building CG departments, developing technical expertise in lighting and simulation, and contributing to major animated productions. The conversation explores leadership, communication across cultures, the intersection of technology and storytelling, and the challenges of helping bring Nimona to life at DNEG. Along the way, Denis also shares stories from his unexpected experiences as a rapper, DJ, podcaster, and hot sauce creator, offering a unique perspective on creativity both inside and outside the industry!

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