In a galaxy not so far away, the Star Wars fans and the animation industry in Singapore. 4y481e
A Pillar of Animation Excellence 1n592k
Established in 2004, the Singapore studio, a division of Industrial Light and Magic (ILM), served as the depth to the Star Wars galaxy, exploring political intrigue and the epic struggle between the Sith and Jedi.
A New Generation of Star Wars Fans 1hq1u
The Clone live-action series.
The Human Impact: A Team Disbanded 1z4l6j
The closure of the Singapore studio is more than a corporate decision; it has a human face. Approximately 300 talented animators and designers are affected by this move. Luke Hetherington, the executive overseeing ILM’s Singapore and Sydney studios, told Variety that efforts are underway to help these workers find new opportunities, including hosting a job fair in Singapore.
Singapore’s Animation Legacy 454l22
Despite the studio’s closure, its impact on Singapore’s animation scene is indelible. Two Singaporean government agencies, the Economic Development Board and the InfoComm Media Development Authority, released a t statement expressing optimism for the future. They highlighted how Lucasfilm’s leaders actively contributed to training generations of students in digital and tech skills at polytechnics and Institutes of Higher Learning in Singapore. The work of ILM over the past 17 years is seen as a foundation that will continue to benefit Singaporeans and solidify Singapore’s position as a hub for animation.
Economic Realities 4g1f6r
A Disney spokesperson cited “economic factors affecting the industry” as a significant influence on this decision. The closure of the Singapore studio is a stark reminder of the volatile nature of the entertainment industry, which, like many others, is not immune to economic pressures.
Conclusion: The End of One Chapter, The Beginning of Another? 165f5p
As the sun sets on Lucasfilm’s Singapore studio, we are reminded of the transient nature of the industry. But is this truly the end? The skills and talents nurtured there will continue to ripple through Singapore and the world. The characters and stories it helped bring to life will continue to captivate audiences for generations to come.
So, as we bid farewell to this chapter of Star Wars history, we can’t help but ask: what new adventures await in a galaxy far, far away?
FAQ: Closure of Lucasfilm’s Singapore Studio 1f1de
Q1: Why is Lucasfilm closing its Singapore studio? 301z72
A1: Lucasfilm is closing its Singapore studio as part of a move to “consolidate their global footprint.” Economic factors affecting the industry were also cited as a significant influence on this decision.
Q2: When was the Singapore studio established? 405q3v
A2: The Singapore studio, a division of Industrial Light and Magic (ILM), was established in 2004.
Q3: What was the primary project of the Singapore studio? 5f372u
A3: The Singapore studio served as the lead studio for Star Wars: The Clone Wars, an animated series that launched in 2008.
Q4: How many employees are affected by the closure? 642112
A4: Approximately 300 animators and designers are affected by the closure of the Singapore studio.
Q5: What is being done to assist the laid-off employees? 4o2v43
A5: Luke Hetherington, the executive overseeing ILM’s Singapore and Sydney studios, has mentioned that efforts are underway to help these workers find new opportunities. This includes hosting a job fair in Singapore.
Q6: What is the significance of Star Wars: The Clone Wars? 1z6r29
A6: The Clone Wars played a pivotal role in introducing a new, younger audience to the Clones and Revenge of the Sith and introduced fan-favorite characters like Ahsoka Tano.
Q7: What is the response from Singaporean government agencies to the closure? 6a481l
A7: Two Singaporean government agencies, the Economic Development Board and the InfoComm Media Development Authority, released a t statement. They expressed optimism that the work ILM had done to train animators over 17 years would continue to benefit Singaporeans and help establish Singapore as a hub for animation.
Q8: Will this closure affect the availability of Star Wars: The Clone Wars series? 591g4i
A8: No, all episodes of Star Wars: The Clone Wars are still available to stream on Disney+.
Q9: Is this closure indicative of problems within the Star Wars franchise? 5qf5f
A9: The closure is described as a move to consolidate Lucasfilm’s global footprint and is influenced by economic factors affecting the industry. There is no indication that it is directly related to problems within the Star Wars franchise itself.
Q10: What does this mean for the future of Star Wars animation? 712zu
A10: While the closure of the Singapore studio marks the end of a significant chapter in Disney continue to produce new Star Wars content, including animated series.