We recently connected with Siddharth Baxi and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Siddharth , thanks for joining us today. We’d love to hear about the things you feel your parents did right and how those things have impacted your career and life.

My parents have had the most significant impact on my life and career. They have taught me some important lessons and always supported me in every way possible. My parents have always pushed me to learn and excel at new things. However, the most crucial thing they have taught me is how to handle failure.

I was in 10th grade, and we were at an electronic megastore. The Playstation 3 was still quite popular back then in India. I have always been into video games, and it obviously caught my eye. I picked up the controller and started playing. I distinctly remember I was playing God Of War 3. It was the best gaming experience I had at that point in my life. I really insisted to my parents that I wanted one, and they said if I scored 90% or above in the Board Exams, I could have one.

10th Grade board exams in India are quite important for shaping one’s career. I was determined, worked hard, and prepared well for 6 months. The board exams were done, and the results were out. I had scored 89.64%. I went to my parents and still asked them to buy me the PS3, thinking they would definitely buy it for me since I missed the mark by only 0.36%. But my parents refused, they said that 89.64% was not 90%. As a kid, I was devastated. I know it feels like my parents were too hard on me. But when I look back at it today, this moment has taught me that a failure is a failure. No matter how close you come to achieving your goal, you have failed if you don’t get across the line. Yes, you can’t always succeed, and there will be times when you fail. But this lesson reminds me to always push for excellence in whatever I do and aim to succeed. Another key takeaway from this lesson is that skills enable you to buy things, not just money, and you should always earn the right to purchase these things.

Siddharth , love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

As a child, I loved watching Hollywood movies and playing video games, but I never thought I’d end up working in a creative field. I was studying computer science and planning to pursue a career in data science. However, in my 3rd year, I discovered Computer Graphics and became very interested in it. I even created my first-person shooter video game using Unreal Engine, which helped me learn about 3D modeling, particle effects, and AI logic.

As I delved deeper into computer graphics, I watched a documentary about Industrial Light and Magic and their groundbreaking work in Computer Generated Imagery for films. This inspired me to pursue a career in visual effects. To improve my artistic skills, I took a course in Art and Design and also experimented with photography, particularly focusing on monochrome photographs to study detailed aspects without distraction.

To enhance my skills in 3D software, I started using Blender 3D to create simple 3D models and FX simulations. My passion for FX simulations led me to research specialized courses, and eventually, I found the perfect fit for me at Lost Boys Studios in Vancouver, Canada.

After receiving training at Lost Boys Studios in FX workflows with Houdini, I landed my first job as an FX TD with Anibrain, a leading VFX studio in India. Over the last four years, I’ve worked on a variety of projects in the FX Department, from creating explosions and sand simulations to handling water-related effects and atmospheric elements for feature films and episodic projects.

Initially starting at Anibrain, I faced tough challenges, but the experience taught me valuable skills and helped me advance in my career. Transitioning to MPC/MRX, I focused on honing my artistic and technical abilities, eventually taking on leadership roles for major projects like Ron Howard’s Thirteen Lives and Viking Valhalla season 2. Working at MARZ in Toronto further broadened my knowledge with projects like The Creator, the Percy Jackson TV series, and Apple TV’s Invasion.

Throughout my career, I’ve learned the significance of building strong connections with teammates, continuously improving skills, and sharing knowledge with others. The support from my friends, family, and colleagues has been essential in surpassing challenges and pushing my limits.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

I’ve found that one of the most fulfilling experiences in the VFX industry is seeing your name in the credits of a show, being acknowledged for your efforts, and gaining the respect of your colleagues.

The Witcher games have always held a special place in my heart. They played a significant role in inspiring me to pursue a career in the creative yet highly technical field of VFX. Working on Season 2 of the Witcher TV series on Netflix with MPC was a dream. I was fortunate enough to be entrusted with developing the look of the Voleth Meir entity for the shots handled by the Bangalore team. Earning my first credit for VFX on Witcher and sharing the experience of seeing it on Netflix with loved ones was incredibly rewarding.

Do you have any insights you can share related to maintaining high team morale?

I’ve been fortunate enough to lead a team of artists on several major projects throughout my career, including Ron Howard’s Thirteen Lives and Vikings Valhalla Season 2.

In my experience, effective team management hinges on clear communication, establishing precise roles and responsibilities, fostering trust within the team, and managing client expectations.

My approach involves carefully analyzing project requirements and assembling a team tailored to those needs. In film and episodic projects, various FX elements like smoke, fire, explosions, and magical effects etc. are often involved. Therefore, I carefully assess the strengths of each team member and assign roles based on their capabilities. I schedule one-on-one reviews at each team member’s desk every week to address any technical or creative challenges they may be facing. Furthermore, I maintain open communication with clients and supervisors to ensure we are meeting their expectations and addressing any feedback effectively.

This process has consistently allowed me to deliver projects on time while maintaining a stress-free environment and high team morale.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sidharth_baxi?utm_source=qr&igsh=MXJiMW53MHo5NmJkNQ==
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/siddharth-baxi-39552a111/
• Other: IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm13318982/? ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0_tt_0_nm_8_q_siddharth%2520baxi

  Vimeo: https://vimeo.com/819027492

Image Credits

Personal Photo – Ajinkya Munge
Additional Photos – Siddharth Baxi