2026 continues its strong start with exciting developments across VFX, Games, Animation, and Immersive sectors. The DAX Job Board has seen an increase in open roles, signalling a more positive industry outlook — with VFX and Animation studios in particular forecasting steady growth through Q2 and Q3. UK VFX Facilities are showing improved business confidence with more UK-based projects being awarded as part of UK Tax Incentive programmes.
Industry News
24th Annual VES Awards Winners Announced
The Visual Effects Society celebrated the best in global VFX at its 24th Annual VES Awards in Los Angeles — a big night for blockbuster storytelling and bold innovation.
Avatar: Fire and Ash dominated with seven wins, including Outstanding Visual Effects in a Photoreal Feature — picking up awards for CG cinematography, effects simulations, environment, model, character (Varang), and the Emerging Technology Award for the Kora Fire Toolset.
In animation, KPop Demon Hunters led with three awards including Outstanding Animation in an Animated Feature and Outstanding Character (Rumi).
Other top winners included:
- Prehistoric Planet: Ice Age - Outstanding VFX in a Photoreal Episode
- Sinners - Outstanding Supporting VFX in a Photoreal Feature
- BMW “Heart of Joy” - Outstanding VFX in a Commercial
- Ghost of Yōtei - Outstanding Visual Arts in a Real-Time Project
The evening also honoured legendary producer Jerry Bruckheimer with the Lifetime Achievement Award and Wētā Workshop co-founder Sir Richard Taylor with the Visionary Award.
The VES Awards are a great reminder that behind every unforgettable screen moment is a global community of artists and technologists creating the magic.
Warner Bros. Discovery — Netflix Walks Away
After months of bidding, Netflix has officially stepped back from its proposal to acquire Warner Bros. Discovery, clearing the path for Paramount Skydance to move forward with a deal reportedly worth $111bn.
Warner Bros. called Paramount’s latest offer “superior,” while Netflix declined to raise its bid — describing the deal as a “nice to have,” not a “must have” at any price. If approved, the acquisition would hand Paramount control of one of Hollywood’s most iconic studios, along with its vast film library and media networks.
Regulatory hurdles remain — California’s Attorney General has confirmed an open investigation, with approvals also required from the U.S. Department of Justice and European regulators.
Bottom line: the streaming wars have evolved into studio-scale consolidation — and the final outcome could redefine power dynamics across entertainment, content ownership, and distribution worldwide.