From Avatar to KPop Demon Hunters, the 2026 VES Awards winners in full
Creative Bloq
by Joe Foley February 26, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The 2026 Visual Effects Society (VES) Awards highlighted the significant role of visual effects in modern cinema and entertainment, with Avatar: Fire and Ash claiming a remarkable seven awards. The film earned accolades for Outstanding Character in a Photoreal Feature, CG Cinematography, and Emerging Technology for its Kora Fire Toolset. This success underscores how advanced VFX continues to push cinematic boundaries.
In the animation category, KPop Demon Hunters dominated with three wins, including Outstanding Animation in an Animated Feature and Effects Simulations. The character Rumi from HUNTR/X trio took home the award for Outstanding Character, showcasing the global appeal of Korean pop culture even in animated media. This recognition not only celebrates the creative team behind the series but also highlights the growing influence of KPop in entertainment.
The event also honored other notable achievements, such as Sinners winning for Outstanding Supporting Visual Effects and Prehistoric Planet: Ice Age taking home the award for Outstanding Visual Effects in a Photoreal Episode. Additionally, BMW’s Heart of Joy campaign featuring an octopus named Okto claimed the prize for Outstanding Visual Effects in a Commercial, demonstrating how VFX extends beyond film into advertising.
The ceremony also celebrated individuals like Jerry Bruckheimer, who received the VES Lifetime Achievement Award, and Sir Richard Taylor, who was honored with the VES Visionary Award. These recognitions emphasize the importance of innovation and legacy in the visual effects industry. The inclusion of student projects, such as Azimuth’s win for Outstanding Visual Effects in a Student Project, further highlights the sector's growth and potential.
Overall, the 2026 VES Awards serve as a testament to the creativity and technical excellence driving today’s entertainment industry, offering inspiration for designers and artists working at the intersection of technology and storytelling.
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Originally published on Creative Bloq on 2/26/2026