Avengers: Infinity Warhas dominated box offices across the world. It is matter of pride for Odisha as Deepak Panigrahi, hailing from Nischintapur in Balasore was associated with the film as its visual-effects compositor. Deepak who was associated with popular Hollywood films Pacificrim: Uprising, Blade Runner 2049, Fast and Furious 8, Assassin’s Creed, Huntsman Winter Warand Wrath of Titansshares his experience with Orissa POST.Excerpts
DIPCHAND BIHARI, OP
A I work in a post-production studio in Mumbai. We had a project to create visual effects for Hollywood film Avengers: Infinity War. Luckily, I was part of the team (35 members) who were assigned to create visual effects for the film. Eleven companies were assigned for the visual effects. We worked for eight to nine months for this project under Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). I am happy to be mentioned in the credit section.
Q What was your contribution to the film? n We did the scenes involving Vision, one of the superheroes, who gets killed. It used to take 20-25 days to complete a small shot. We created some effects for Thanos, villain of the film.
Q Do you think visual effects are necessary for films?
A Not exactly. If you have a strong storyline, the film can be a blockbuster. But visual effects help create a fictional environment, images or characters that look real. Visual effects involve various departments like roto-scoping, prep, body tracking, modelling, texturing and visual compositor departments. Visual effect is an artistic skill.
Q Working for big project like Avengers is a big challenge. How did handle the pressure?
A It was challenging and involved pressure. Film directors were tough. They look for perfectness
and want to create real situations. When I prepared visual effects for the scene, it was like a piece of work of a child. Finally, it took me 25 days to prepare the perfect visual for a scene.
Q You were the visual effect compositor for Hollywood movie Pacificrim: Uprising. How was your experience working with the project?
A I created visual effects during a training session for the film also some effects during a battle with aliens. Big projects give boost to work better. My company gives me chance to learn from every project.
Q You had wanted to join the army. How did you land on digital platform?
A Yes, it was my dream to join the army. I like uniforms. But I didn’t apply because I was not fit physically. My next choice was to work for digital platform. So, I joined a studio and leant things. Now, I am
at this stage after long struggle.
Q What are the barriers before you achieved success?
A It was painful although it a learning. I went to Mumbai in 2011 to pursue a career. Initially, I was rejected in many interviews. I had to keep patience and search for jobs here and there. After four years of struggle, I got an opportunity to work in a company. I am proud of my profession as I am part of a creative process.
Q What is your new project?
A I can’t reveal my latest project now. But it is a big film under a great director.