Weta Digital Looks to Become Content Producer

At a time when much of Hollywood is reeling from Covid-19, Weta Digital, the Wellington visual-effects company behind Avatar and Avengers: Endgame, is looking to pull a growth story out of its magic hat, Joe Flint writes for The Wall Street Journal.

The closely held Miramar-based company, which was co-founded by Lord of the Rings director and special-effects wizard Peter Jackson, is adding some heavy hitters to its board of directors, including former Walt Disney Co. chief operating officer Tom Staggs, according to the WSJ.

Jackson sees a big opportunity to provide animated programming for streaming services as well as movies and cable channels. “There’s a demand that’s tending to outstrip supply right now,” Jackson said. Another plus for animation is that it is Covid-proof. While fears of the spread of coronavirus have made it challenging to shoot on TV and movie sets, animation work can be done remotely.

Original article by Joe Flint, The Wall Street Journal, December 17, 2020.