James Cameron Pushes for Cheaper VFX: “I’d Like To See the Cost of VFX Artists Come Down”

James Cameron says the movie industry needs to find ways to make films more affordable.

According to him, the theatrical business is not doing as well as it used to. “The theatrical business is dwindling. Hopefully it doesn’t continue to dwindle. Right now, it’s plateaued at about 30% down from 2019 levels,” Cameron told the Associated Press. He hopes people can bring back some of the magic of seeing movies in theaters.

Cameron believes the only way to save theaters is to make movies that people feel they must see on the big screen.

But studios aren’t making as many of these movies anymore because they cost too much. They often stick to safe bets, like big franchise films, and this makes it hard for new stories and new filmmakers to get a chance.

One big factor driving up costs is VFX, or visual effects. These are the digital effects that create the amazing worlds and creatures we see in modern films. VFX is expensive because it requires a lot of skilled artists, powerful computers, and long hours of work. Every detail has to be perfect, from lighting to movement, and that takes time and money.

Cameron thinks the cost of VFX artists could come down if studios and artists embrace new technology. “I’d like to see the cost of VFX artists come down. VFX artists get scared and say, ‘Oh, I’m going to be out of a job.’“

“I’m like, ‘No, the way you’re going to be out of a job is if trends continue and we just don’t make these kinds of movies anymore.’ If you develop these tools or learn these tools, then your throughput will be quicker and that will bring the cost of productions down, and studios will be encouraged to make more and more of these types of films.” He said.

Cameron calls this a virtuous cycle. If VFX becomes more efficient, studios can make more movies, new filmmakers can get opportunities, and theaters can attract bigger audiences again.

He warns that if nothing changes, the kinds of movies that make theaters special might disappear.

Cameron’s message is clear: technology and smarter use of VFX are key to keeping big-screen movies alive. By reducing costs and taking smart risks, the movie industry can create new stories that people want to see in theaters.

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