Rhys Salcombe, originally from Aberystwyth, Wales, is a visual effects artist who has recently expressed his mixed feelings after his team secured an Oscar for Best Visual Effects for Dune: Part Two.
. Although he conveyed pride in their achievement and appreciation for the acknowledgment of his team’s efforts, he confessed to feeling let down by not getting the chance to deliver a speech at the ceremony.
. While he expressed pride in the accomplishment and gratitude for the recognition of his team’s work, he admitted to feeling disappointed by his inability to deliver an acceptance speech during the ceremony.
Salcombe, a Welsh-Canadian creative professional, was on stage with three of his colleagues to receive the prestigious award. However, the limited time allotted for speeches meant that he did not get the opportunity to say his thanks or share his thoughts. Reflecting on the moment, he described it as unfortunate but acknowledged the importance of allowing his teammates to speak, particularly as some of them had missed similar opportunities in the past.
Speaking with BBC Radio Wales, Salcombe explained that representing the team on stage was still a significant honor. He noted how the win symbolized the hard work of nearly 2,000 people who contributed to the film’s visual effects, emphasizing the collaborative spirit required to achieve such a feat. “It’s not just about the four of us standing on that stage,” he remarked. “It’s about everyone who made it possible, and I’m proud to be part of that recognition.”
Salcombe’s journey into the world of visual effects began in the scenic landscapes of Ceredigion, where he grew up. He attributed his passion for film to the natural beauty he experienced as a child and the encouragement of his parents, who introduced him to cinema at an early age. “Being surrounded by nature really inspired me to capture beauty through a camera lens,” he said. His early exposure to film, combined with years of honing his craft, eventually led him to work on major Hollywood productions.
When questioned about the potential for a third installment in the Dune series,
When asked about the possibility of a third installment in the Dune
universe, he did not dismiss the possibility altogether, playfully remarking that bringing in a vast amount of sand would be necessary to make it feasible.
universe, he didn’t rule out the idea entirely, humorously commenting that a significant amount of sand would need to be imported to make it work.
Salcombe’s experience at the Oscars also highlighted the critical role teamwork plays in the film industry. He explained that visual effects require immense coordination among hundreds, sometimes thousands, of professionals. The recognition his team received, he said, was a testament to the dedication and creativity of everyone involved.
Despite his disappointment over not being able to address the audience during the ceremony, Salcombe remains grateful for the opportunity to represent his colleagues on such a grand stage. He hopes that his story will inspire other aspiring artists from Wales and beyond to pursue careers in the creative industries.
As the dust settles from the Oscars, Salcombe is already thinking about his next steps. For now, he is taking time to reflect on the journey that brought him to this point, expressing gratitude for the support of his family, friends, and collaborators. While the future remains uncertain, one thing is clear: Salcombe’s contributions to the world of visual effects have cemented his place as a rising star in the industry.