Is honoring outdated icons really the best we can do for the future of visual effects?

The upcoming PIDS Enghien is set to hand out a GENIE d’Honneur to none other than Richard Edlund, a name that, while significant in the history of VFX, feels increasingly out of touch with the current landscape. Sure, Edlund is a pioneer, but do we really need to celebrate the past when the industry is bursting with innovative talent that deserves recognition?

Let’s face it: this is more than just an award show; it’s a glaring example of how the industry continues to cling to its legends instead of pushing forward. We should be elevating emerging voices, not idolizing those who have already had their time in the spotlight. It's frustrating to see the same names recycled in an industry that thrives on creativity and evolution. What about the young creators, the bold innovators, and the diverse talents who are redefining the boundaries of visual storytelling?

It’s time for the PIDS to wake up! Celebrating past achievements doesn’t pave the way for future breakthroughs. Instead, it perpetuates a cycle of stagnation. If we want the VFX industry to thrive, we must prioritize fresh ideas and perspectives.