Technicolor's Legacy: A Post-Production Veteran’s Take on the Future of VFX

In this episode of the KoobrikLabs podcast, Orlando Wood sits down with Lee Pavey, founder of Electric Theatre Collective and Vice President at The Hogan, to talk about the economics, emotion, and enduring craft behind post-production – and why it might be the creative industry’s canary in the coal mine. Lee reflects on his journey from sketching during lunch breaks at M&S to becoming a key figure at legendary post houses like The Mill and co-founding one of the most culturally influential VFX studios in London. With characteristic warmth and insight, he discusses what made places like The Mill special – not just the work, but the people – and why that kind of culture is so hard to scale. The conversation unpacks the collapse of Technicolor, and what it signals about a broader shift in the creative economy. Lee’s perspective is honest but never doomsday – shedding light on how studios, agencies, and vendors are navigating tighter budgets, talent pressures, and structural change. They also explore the role of AI in visual effects – both its promise as a tool and the unintended impact it may have on early-career artists. Lee doesn’t just see technology as disruption – he sees it as a mirror of values, and asks what kind of creative future we want to build together. Whether you’re a producer, founder, or creative leader, this episode offers a candid and timely look at what it really takes to build something resilient in an industry that never stops evolving. Orlando and Lee explore: The soul of post-production – why culture, craft, and community matter more than ever Inside Technicolor’s collapse – what it says about creative industries and consolidation Rethinking studio growth – hard-won lessons from launching and closing an LA office AI’s real impact – how automation is disrupting the entry path for future talent Creative leadership – navigating burnout, pressure, and staying inspired in tough times Useful Links: Connect with Lee on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lee-pavey-5b755524/ Follow The Hogan on Instagram: https://www.thehogan.co/ Follow The Hogan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-hogan/?originalSubdomain=uk Visit KoobrikLabs: https://koobriklabs.com/ Connect with Orlando on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/orlando-wood/