Conference
Rhythm of Change
GenAI Is Growing Up
ON SITE
Meidinger-Saal
Wednesday, May 07, 18:15
Where Do We Go Next?
Video on demand
Generative AI has the potential to be a massively disruptive force which will no doubt force many to pivot in their chosen careers. This panel features experts working at the highest levels of media and entertainment, all of whom have long track records of adapting to new technologies and techniques in order to forge careers through uncertain changes. This conversation will explore the tumultuous landscape that the Entertainment industry has become, with actionable advice for early and mid-career artists and technicians who find themselves faced with a need to find a path forward. While these panelists cannot offer advice on how to prevent change, they can certainly provide hope for those needing to navigate it.
Jim Geduldick, Visual Effects Supervisor | Virtual Production Supervisor | Cinematographer, Spaceboy Labs
Jim Geduldick is a renowned creative innovator whose work spans film, visual effects, virtual production, and artificial intelligence. With a career defined by a passion for storytelling and a drive to push technological boundaries, Jim has cemented his reputation as a leader at the intersection of creativity and cutting-edge innovation.
With roots in cinematography and visual effects, Jim has contributed to an impressive array of projects, blending his cinematic expertise with a mastery of digital tools. His work in visual effects highlights his commitment to elevating narratives through stunning visuals and immersive worlds. Recent projects include Robert Zemeckis Here, Amazon.MGM upcoming series Criminal, Youre Cordially Invited, AppleTV+ Yo Gabba GabbaLand, Masters of the Air and The Muppets Mayhem.
In recent years, Jim has become a pioneer in virtual production, leveraging real-time rendering and advanced workflows to redefine modern filmmaking. From LED volume stages to motion capture, his approach seamlessly integrates digital and practical techniques, empowering filmmakers with unprecedented creative flexibility.
Jim’s exploration of artificial intelligence adds another layer to his innovative portfolio. By harnessing AI technologies, he has expanded the possibilities of storytelling, visual effects, and content creation, making him a trailblazer in the rapidly evolving creative landscape.
A frequent speaker and advocate for emerging technologies, Jim is dedicated to inspiring the next generation of creators. His ability to bridge the gap between artistic vision and technical execution continues to influence and transform the industries of film, media, and technology.
Rajesh Sharma, PhD Student, ETH Zurich
Rajesh Sharma is a seasoned technology executive and researcher with more than two decades of experience in the animation and visual effects industry. Over the course of his 23-year tenure at Walt Disney Animation Studios, Rajesh incubated and managed the development of Disney’s proprietary Hyperion Renderer, a state-of-the-art system renowned for handling global illumination in complex scenes. He also spearheaded key innovations in tools such as XGen, and simulation solutions for vegetation, hair, cloth, snow, and water, contributing to numerous animated features, including the Academy Award–winning Big Hero 6, Frozen, Zootopia, and Encanto.
After his impactful work at Disney, Rajesh served as Vice President of Engineering at Spire Animation Studios, where he focused on harnessing game engine technology and innovative workflows to empower artists in delivering high-quality feature animation.
In 2022, he began his Ph.D. at ETH Zurich at the acclaimed Computer Graphics Laboratory, to explore the intersection of rendering and machine learning. Throughout his career, Rajesh has been actively involved with SIGGRAPH, serving as a reviewer, juror, and educator. He has led numerous workshops and webinars on topics such as machine learning and rendering, sharing his expertise with professionals and enthusiasts alike.
Andy Cochrane, Interactive and Immersive Creator, The AV Club Productions
Andrew Cochrane is an interactive and immersive creator for mediums such as virtual and augmented reality, installations, live events, and large-scale domes. Andrew is an expert in forming and leading multi-disciplinary teams to deliver innovative and technologically complex projects. He has been integral to the growing immersive entertainment space as a creator and thought leader.
Currently, he is consulting and working with exciting new technologies – using AI and other emerging tools to architect experiences for audiences across numerous platforms and mediums. Most recently, he has been developing a new form of immersive musical experience called Loud Movies – an experimental blend of dance music and cinema that leans heavily on live event technologies.
Previous accomplishments include building the studio, team, and processes for the content creation arm responsible for the Sphere in Las Vegas, MSG Sphere Studios. As the Senior Vice President of Post Production, Andrew was responsible for building and leading the Post, Playback, and Studio Technology teams driving the technology, audio, and video for the MSG Sphere in Las Vegas.
His immersive credits span the gamut of live-action, CGI, and real-time experiences for clients such as HP, Intel, Adobe, USA Today, Google, GE, Disney, USA Network, Visa, Las Vegas, and many others. Andrew has also directed commercials for brands such as Disney, LG, VIZIO, Google, Target, Barco, and M&M’s. He has also done several traditional and VR projects featuring his own narrative and creative development, including “The Carrier” a VR short starring Karolina Wydra that is currently working through the international film festival circuit.
