I'd like to say a few
words about the
last few years of my career in LA. The best work I had was with Tony Alderson and Frank Isaacs at
AI, Effects. It will be a long time, if ever, that I will be as respected and appreciated by a boss
as I was by them. Tony was a stickler for details and would work on a scene until it was perfect.
Some of the shots he did in "From the Earth to the Moon" were masterpieces. But he had other
interests
as well. Tony's work with the stereoscopic discipline is profound. Just do a
google search on Tony's name and you'll find yourself
with a list of technical articles to read. This is all above my head but it was good to know there
was a mighty smart person in the office! And when I did a shot well and Tony made a subtle
acknowledgment, it was more valuable than any public award. You can read more about Tony's amazing career and acomplishments
here.
Frank was an incredibly nice guy. He was the best boss anyone could ask for. He tended to be a
happy person, but even when he was stressed, it didn't last long. And he was generous. Almost
everytime we had a "big" job he would announce that I would get a raise. I never cared how much - he
just took care of it all. I could always rely on getting a check every Friday. I love NOT having to
worry about getting paid. It means I can concentrate on being creative. The atmosphere
at the office was relaxed and stressfree. All I had to do was show up and work. It was Perfect!
Frank loved toys and delighted in showing off a new find. He loved to share whatever happiness there
was around with everyone. If there was something to celebrate, then we were all invited. Knowing
that I need to drink alot of water he made sure the office was well stocked in bottled water. Frank
was always paying attention to the little details: in work as well as life.
Frank was easy to collaborate with. He had experience as an assistant CO and knew what a shot
needed and was always clear on what I had to do. And there's nothing like locating all the pieces of
a shot with Frank and then, after I start to assemble them, Frank would walk past me and, looking at
the screen would say, "wow!" in a completely sincere exclamation. I knew I was doing it it right when
that happened.
Thanks Tony. Thanks Frank. Thanks for making some of the best highlights of my life!
As a tribute and rememberance I have tried my best to duplicate the AIFX
site. I should have done this sooner, but better late than never. Anyway, what Tony said about From the
Earth to the Moon is found here.
Here's some Earth To the Moon
links:
