'Avatar: Fire and Ash' Takes Top Honors at VFX Society Awards

Variety

by jazztangcay

February 26, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

"Avatar: Fire and Ash" claimed top honors at the 24th Visual Effects Society Awards, dominating with seven awards including the Outstanding VFX in a Photoreal Feature. The film, known for its ambitious visuals, required over 3,000 VFX shots and faced significant challenges in creating realistic fire effects. Eric Saindon of Weta FX noted that fire’s dynamic nature made it one of the most complex elements to depict, requiring meticulous attention to fuel, oxygen, and environmental factors. The ceremony also celebrated "KPop Demon Hunters," which won three awards, including Outstanding Animation Feature and Outstanding Character Design for Rumi. Meanwhile, "Zootopia 2" earned praise for its Marsh Market biome, designed for semi-aquatic animals like beavers. "Sinners" took home the award for Outstanding Supporting VFX in a Photoreal Feature, showcasing the range of excellence across different projects. The event honored industry legends, with Jerry Bruckheimer receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award and Weta Workshop’s Sir Richard Taylor feted with the Visionary Award. The ceremony also recognized achievements in TV, with "Andor" winning for Special Effects and "Prehistoric Planet: Ice Age" claiming the prize for Best Visual Effects in a Photoreal Episode. The VES Awards highlight the evolving craft of visual effects, blending artistry and technology to push creative boundaries. This year’s winners demonstrate how VFX continues to innovate across film, animation, and TV, delivering unforgettable experiences that captivate audiences worldwide. The event underscores the importance of recognizing the behind-the-scenes talent that brings cinematic magic to life.

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Originally published on Variety on 2/26/2026