Innovative VFX at Basilic Fly Studio: Insights from Navaneetha Krishnan

Innovative VFX at Basilic Fly Studio: Insights from Navaneetha Krishnan

1. Could you share the story of how you entered the world of VFX?

My passion for drawing led me to pursue a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA). After completing my degree, I got into the creative field of Visual Effects (VFX), starting in Digital Matte Painting (DMP). It’s been a journey of dedication and perseverance, and I’ve been fortunate to contribute to over 500 films. Each project underscores my passion for creativity and the potential of VFX. It makes me want to keep being creative and pushing the limits in my craft.

2. What aspect of your role brings you the greatest sense of joy?

Being Head of the Department of Prep, some key responsibilities that bring joy are as follows. 

Mentoring and guiding aspiring artists within the department, witnessing their growth, and seeing their contributions elevate the overall quality of projects.

Leveraging the latest technologies and advanced tools to continuously enhance our workflows and final output at Basilic Fly Studio, ensuring that we maintain our position as a leader in the industry.

Collaborating with talented teams to solve creative challenges, finding innovative solutions that push the boundaries of what’s possible in VFX prep.

Seeing the final product on the big screen, knowing that my contributions have helped shape the immersive worlds that captivate audiences and leave a lasting impact. In my view, artists represent one aspect, while production serves as another. Both are equally important to me.

3. Among the projects you’ve worked on, which one stands out as your favorite?

All the projects I’ve worked on hold a special place in my heart. Each one has contributed to my growth and provided unique experiences. However, if I were to highlight a few favorites, they would include three Oscar-winning films. Additionally, I’ve been privileged to contribute to acclaimed projects such as Avatar, Aquaman, She Hulk, Antman Quantum Mania and few installments of the Spiderman, Suicide Squad, Dead Pool, Dustbunny, Furiosa Mad Max Saga, Breaking Point, Onelife, and Orphan. Each of these projects has not only enriched my career but also provided invaluable lessons and experiences that have shaped my journey in the world of VFX.

4. Could you describe the typical tasks and responsibilities of a Head of Prep on a day-to-day basis?

As HOD Prep, my day to day activities includes Overseeing the execution of Prep-related tasks, ensuring consistency and quality across projects, Providing guidance and support to the Prep team, resolving any issues that arise during production, Collaborating with other department heads to ensure seamless integration of painted elements into the overall VFX pipeline, Managing schedules and resources to meet project deadlines and client expectations.

5. If someone were aspiring to enter this industry, what advice would you offer?

Focus on building a strong foundation in both artistic skills and technical knowledge like perspectives, colouring, anotomies etc, as these skills are key for the VFX industry.

Stay up to date on the latest trends and technologies, continuously honing your craft to remain competitive in the field.

Network with professionals in the industry, seek mentorship opportunities, and be proactive in seeking out internships or entry-level positions to gain hands-on experience.

Embrace challenges and setbacks as opportunities for growth, and never stop learning and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in visual effects, aligning with the innovative spirit that defines Basilic Fly Studio’s approach to projects.

6. What do you envision for the future of VFX in the next five years?

In the next five years, I see VFX progressing rapidly, bringing even more realistic and immersive effects to movies, TV shows, and media. At Basilic Fly Studio, exciting innovations are on the horizon. I anticipate greater integration of VFX in virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR), creating new ways for audiences to engage with storytelling. Technological advancements are also expected to simplify production processes, making top-tier visual effects more accessible across various industries and for creators worldwide.

Rapid Fire questions:

1. If you could have dinner with any celebrity, living or dead, who would it be?

Dr. A.P.J Abdul Kalam

2. What’s your favorite way to unwind after a long day?

Listening to music & some time with a long walk.

3. If you could give one piece of advice to your younger self, what would it be?

London

4. How do you spend your weekends?

At home mostly, playing with my kids.

5. Finally, Describe BFS in three words.

Innovative, Supportive, Ethical.

Balakrishnan R
CEO and Co-Founder of Basilic Fly Studios
"Since founding Basilic Fly Studios with my colleagues back in 2013, we have always wanted to create an international partner for film, TV and streaming industry and today’s deal with One of Us is an important milestone in this vision. Over the years, we have worked together on multiple projects, so we know each other incredibly well. It was immediately clear that we shared a belief in the central role of talented artists within a wider vision and culture. Throughout our relationship, I have been blown away by the skill of the One of Us team, and together with the talent of the BFS team, I am certain that we can achieve great things together."


Rachael Penfold
CEO and Co-Founder of One of Us
"The film industry is full of challenges, and VFX is often front line – inventing new ways to realise the creative appetites and imaginations of filmmakers and creators alike. The opportunity to combine with a fast-growing studio like BFS – working closely with Bala, Yoga and their fantastic leadership is very exciting for us. It allows us to expand in ways we would not easily achieve on our own. We will bring together our brilliant and talented teams, offering a greater diversity of choice within the sector and more exciting opportunities into the hands of our artists. This will be a powerful and agile offering, at a time when the industry is transforming itself, and engaging with the work requires new and innovative thinking. On a day-to-day basis, it will remain business as usual, with myself and the founders overseeing the London studio, and Emmanuel Pichereau providing leadership in Paris."


Yogalakshmi Balakrishnan
Chief Business Strategy Officer & Director
A dynamic leader with expertise in business analysis, HR, and strategic growth, Yogalakshmi drives operational excellence and fosters sustainable business expansion through her people-centric approach.
Balakrishnan R
Founder & Managing Director
Balakrishnan R started as a Junior Compositor and, with his passion for VFX, built Basilic Fly Studio into a global leader. His vision for innovation and excellence continues to push creative boundaries in the industry.
Prabhakar D
Head of Studio & Director
Prabhakar D leads Basilic Fly Studio with a focus on efficiency, creativity, and high-quality execution. His leadership ensures seamless project management, strong industry collaborations, and exceptional VFX delivery.
Zameer Hussain
Chief Operating Officer & Global EVP
With a track record on blockbuster projects like The Irishman and Stranger Things, Zameer optimizes creative workflows and enhances efficiency, driving innovation and excellence in VFX production.
Gaurav Mehra
Chief Financial Officer
A finance leader with 20+ years of experience, Gaurav specializes in financial transformations, automation, and M&A, ensuring sustainable growth and operational excellence.
Swati Sharma
Company Secretary & Compliance Officer
Swati specializes in LODR regulations, RBI compliance, legal drafting, and overseas investments like FDI, FTP, and FLA returns. With a keen eye for governance and regulatory frameworks, she brings precision and efficiency to compliance. Passionate about dancing, she balances her legal expertise with creativity.
Jennifer
GM Business Development North America
With 20+ years of experience, Jennifer excels in client relations, VFX bidding, and revenue growth. She builds strong teams, manages large-scale projects, and ensures seamless execution.
Tushar Kant Ojha
Head of Human Resources
Bringing 24 years of expertise in HR operations and talent management, Tushar fosters a thriving workplace culture, scaling teams and driving strategic HR initiatives for organizational success.
Krishna Prasad
Head of Production
A media and entertainment leader with expertise in studio management and business development, Kris drives strategic growth, fosters collaboration, and optimizes business operations globally.
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Basilic Fly Studio

Basilic Fly Studio Ltd

Pune

AP81, 16th Floor,
Koregaon Park Annexe, Mundhwa
Pune, Maharashtra – 411001.

Basilic Fly Studio Ltd

Chennai

4th Floor, Tower A, Commerzone,
Mount Poonamalle Road, Porur,
Chennai, TamilNadu -600116.

Basilic Fly Studio UK pvt Ltd

London

73 Cornhill, London, EC3V 3QQ, United Kingdom.

Basilic fly studio Canada pvt Ltd

Vancouver

#1010 – 1030, West Georgia Street,
Vancouver, BC V6E2Y3.

London

16 Tabernacle Street, London, EC2A 4DD

Paris

4/6 Cite du Labyrinthe
75020 Paris