A new force is rising in the world of visual effects! Phantom Media Group (PMG) has launched, uniting a powerhouse of VFX studios under one roof, promising exciting new possibilities for film and television. This strategic move brings together industry giants like Milk, Lola Post, and Tippett Studio, along with PhantomFX and Spectre Post. But what does this mean for the future of visual effects? Let's dive in.
This consolidation follows a period of significant acquisitions by Phantom Digital Effects, an Indian company. They've been building a global network of post-production houses across the Asia-Pacific region, the U.S., and the UK. Milk and Lola Post, both based in the UK, were acquired in July. Tippett Studio, a veteran in the industry, joined the family in 2024. Furthermore, Spectre Post was launched in Bengaluru, India, in the same year.
While operating under the PMG umbrella, each studio will maintain its unique identity and creative leadership. They will continue to serve clients across various platforms, including film, TV, commercials, and immersive content. The group is led by CEO and founder Bejoy Arputharaj, COO Binu Joshua, and Executive Vice President Ian Unterreiner.
The VFX industry has faced some tough times recently. Companies like Technicolor have struggled, and DNEG has had to make significant staff cuts. However, PMG is emerging as a prominent player in this evolving landscape. This trend highlights the need for innovation and collaboration within the industry.
"The past year has been tough for everyone in the film industry, studios, artists, and productions alike,” said Arputharaj. “However, challenges like these also make you stop and reimagine how we can work smarter and build stronger. Phantom Media Group was born from that reflection, bringing together legacy, innovation, and global collaboration under one roof. We’re not reacting to the market; we’re shaping what comes next."
Milk has an impressive portfolio, including work on Good Omens, Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald, and Doctor Who. Lola Post has contributed to shows like The Reluctant Traveler and Bad Sisters. Tippett Studio, with a history dating back to 1984, has worked on numerous Star Wars films, The Walking Dead, and Jurassic Park. PhantomFX has contributed to both Indian streaming shows and major Hollywood blockbusters like The Avengers.
Upcoming and recent projects across the PMG group include The Mandalorian and Grogu, Good Omens Season 3, The Witcher Season 4, Ironheart, Heads of State, Walking with Dinosaurs, Creation of the Gods II: Demon Force, Star Wars: Skeleton Crew, and Alien: Romulus.
"Each of our studios brings unique strengths, styles and voices,” said Arputharaj. “Together, we are expanding our capabilities to foster deeper creative partnerships around the world, while driving continued growth. This is an exciting new chapter – one that reflects our ambitions for the future.”
Unterreiner added: “PMG brings together the expertise of leading studios into a powerhouse network that combines scale, agility and innovation. By aligning talent, technology and resources across key regions, we can maintain world-class creative standards for the most complex productions and deliver exceptional results for clients around the globe.”
But here's where it gets controversial... Will this consolidation lead to even more impressive visual effects, or could it stifle the unique creative voices of the individual studios? What impact will this have on the artists and the overall quality of work? What do you think? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
