Rising Sun Pictures
Adelaide (Kaurna), South Australia.
A familiar face at the Australian Export Awards
The Australian Export Awards is a valuable platform to showcase the quality and innovation that Australian companies bring to the world. Being recognised not only strengthens our reputation but also showcases the impact of our work on a global scale.
Jennie Zeiher, President of Rising Sun Pictures.
Creative Industries winner – Rising Sun Pictures.
Rising Sun Pictures lights up modern cinematic experiences
21 November 2024
Rising Sun Pictures (RSP) has a passion for storytelling and a desire to break new ground in the entertainment industry.
The 2024 Australian Exporter of the Year provides cutting-edge visual effects to major film studios and streaming services around the globe.
‘At Rising Sun Pictures, we aim to leave a lasting legacy of innovation and creative excellence,’ says Jennie Zeiher, President of Rising Sun Pictures. ‘We have always been at the forefront of pushing the boundaries of visual effects, serving as true creative partners to filmmakers worldwide.’
Rising to the challenge
There is an increasing demand for high-quality visual effects in the entertainment industry, where creative and technical challenges abound. RSP solves these challenges through innovative technology, creative leadership, and comprehensive training programs. RSP now boasts a team of more than 340 artists and supervisors across its Adelaide and Brisbane studios. The team brings a wealth of experience and creativity to each project.
Machine learning capabilities produce seamless results
RSP uses advanced technologies to enhance the quality and efficiency of visual effects. The studio’s proprietary REVIZE™ technology merges machine learning with artistic expertise. The tech significantly reduces the time required for visual effects production. World-famous film studios and streaming services revere its superior results.
Cutting-edge tech paves a bright future for visual effects
RSP contributed to 23 film and series projects in 2023. More than half of these had a machine learning component. Projects that used machine learning contributed to a higher gross margin. The studio has also just completed its 20th project utilising REVIZE™ technology, solidifying its reputation as an industry leader.
‘Our pioneering work in this area has garnered attention from major motion picture studios and other visual effects companies,’ says Zeiher. ‘This has led to a steady stream of projects.’
Nurturing the next generation
RSP’s partnership with the University of South Australia nurtures a new generation of visual effects artists. The partnership provides a pathway for graduates to become RSP staff through unique on-premises training. ‘This not only enriches the industry but also ensures a continuous influx of new talent and innovative ideas,’ says Zeiher.
In the past year, RSP added 1,800 sqm of space adjacent to its Adelaide studio. This included a dedicated training space for 48 students.
Our pioneering work in this area has garnered attention from major motion picture studios and other visual effects companies. This has led to a steady stream of projects.
Prudent financial management cushions economic impacts
External forces can impact project budgets and profitability. These include fluctuations in exchange rates, recessions, industry strikes and inflation. RSP addresses these risks by hedging against currency risks. It also maintains a diversified client base across different economic regions. ‘This strategic financial planning helps cushion the impact of economic downturns and stabilise RSP’s revenue streams,’ says Zeiher.
A familiar face at the Australian Export Awards
RSP is the 2024 Australian Exporter of the Year and winner of the Creative Industries award category at this year’s Australian Export Awards. It won the Creative Industries award category in 2019, and the Arts, Entertainment & Design category in 2018. It was also recognised as a finalist in the Creative Industries award category in 2023.
‘The Australian Export Awards is a valuable platform to showcase the quality and innovation that Australian companies bring to the world,’ says Zeiher. ‘Being recognised not only strengthens our reputation but also showcases the impact of our work on a global scale.’
Sights set on the UK
RSP’s next target market for export expansion is the UK. ‘While Hollywood remains the central hub for decision-making, we see significant potential in the UK,’ says Zeiher. ‘Major studios like Warner Bros. and Netflix have established a strong presence there. The high-calibre tentpole films coming out of the UK align with our expertise’. Expanding into the UK also supports RSP’s risk mitigation strategy. It diversifies its project base, reducing the reliance on a single country.
A sunny future for RSP
A combination of advanced technology, skilled artistry, and strong leadership teams makes RSP a competitive force in the industry. Continued investment in R&D is essential.
‘We will focus on expanding our machine learning department, software engineering, and infrastructure,’ says Zeiher. ‘This will allow us to stay at the forefront of technological innovation.’
Visit Rising Sun Pictures website.
Creative Industries winner – Rising Sun Pictures. For the full transcript please visit the Creative Industries Award 2024 - Rising Sun Pictures video on YouTube.
