Animism Studios

Animism Studios is an independent Vancouver-based visual effects and animation facility founded in 2017. The studio focuses on photoreal creature and character work alongside a full 2D and 3D VFX pipeline for feature films, episodic productions, commercials, exhibitions, and interactive projects.

Its character work spans concept design, high-resolution modeling and texturing, anatomical rigging, muscle and tissue simulation, fur grooming, and performance-driven animation. The studio also delivers CG environments, digital set extensions, crowds, matte painting, post-visualization, screen replacements, prep and paint, rotoscoping, and high-volume compositing.

Production capabilities

• Creature and character VFX: Design, asset creation, simulation, grooming, and animation for complex digital characters.
• FX and environments: Houdini-based dynamic effects including particulate, gore, atmospheric, and destruction work, together with crowds and digital environments.
• Compositing and finishing: Digital compositing, beauty and makeup enhancements, post-vis, and shot-based finishing support.
• Virtual production: Real-time LED-stage workflow integration using Unreal Engine, live-action camera tracking, and on-set rendering.

Animism operates predominantly on a Linux-based production pipeline using tools including Autodesk Maya, SideFX Houdini, Foundry Nuke, Gaffer, and Autodesk Arnold. It also maintains a TPN-compliant security infrastructure supporting secure on-premises, remote, and hybrid workflows.

Selected work

The studio’s credits include Sonic the Hedgehog 2, Lost in Space, Jane, The Order, The Morning Show, Superman & Lois, Child’s Play, Stranger Things, Grey’s Anatomy, Schmigadoon!, Charmed, Wu Assassins, Malibu Rescue, iZombie, Joe Pickett, and Grease: Rise of the Pink Ladies.

Beyond screen work, Animism produced media for the touring exhibition Victoria the T. Rex and created the animated mental-health awareness short Reach Out. The company has also explored extended-reality healthcare training through its work on the Virtual Pulse project.