First there was Cartoon Network, and now, the animation studio behind Star Wars: The Clone Wars is closing up shop as well? 2023, you’ve definitely done it.
In a step indicative of the rapidly transforming animation landscape, Lucasfilm has announced the closure of its world-renowned Singapore-based visual effects and animation studio, marking the end of a celebrated era spanning close to twenty years. The studio, acclaimed for its pivotal role in birthing the beloved animated series, Star Wars: The Clone Wars, will soon bid adieu to the industry, as revealed by Variety.
A glance back reveals a journey steeped in passion and innovation. Established in 2004, Lucasfilm Singapore served as a beacon in the animation world. Its crown jewel, Star Wars: The Clone Wars, added depth to the galaxy, far, far away as it navigated through political minefields and the eternal tussle between Sith and Jedi and also introduced us to characters that would etch themselves into the annals of Star Wars history. Among these is the formidable Ahsoka Tano, who’ll be starring in her own live-action shown later this month after making multiple appearances in animation and live-action form – she’s a symbol of the legacy that the Singapore studio will leave behind.
However, this decision isn’t just a reflection of Lucasfilm’s strategic moves; it is emblematic of the overarching changes in the world of entertainment. Economic factors were cited as the primary catalyst. With Disney’s efforts to consolidate its global footprint, the closure, though poignant, was perhaps an anticipated move.
In 2019, the iconic Sandcrawler Building, a nod to Star Wars heritage and home to Lucasfilm’s Singapore operations, was sold to Blackstone Group. And while Disney remains an indomitable force in animation, it hasn’t been devoid of its fair share of challenges. Its streaming platform, Disney+, has faced profitability issues, further evidenced by its forthcoming price hikes.
The decision resonates beyond just Lucasfilm’s corridors. Around 300 talents stand at the cusp of change, their futures hanging in the balance. Yet, in the shadow of this massive shift, there emerges a glimmer of hope. Luke Hetherington, at the helm of Industrial Light and Magic’s (ILM) studios in Singapore and Sydney, voiced the collective aim to ensure that the professionals find avenues to continue their pioneering work. Disney and ILM aren’t stopping at offering relocation opportunities to other growing studios. In a commendable move, they’re orchestrating a job fair in collaboration with the Singaporean business community. The aim? To align these experts with organizations that resonate with their unmatched skill sets.
Singapore, with its progressive vision, is a stalwart supporter of the digital and animation domain. Lucasfilm’s close ties with local institutions has played a key role in honing generations of empowered students. The collaborative spirit is echoed in the words of Singapore’s Economic Development Board (EDB) and Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA). Their unified statement paints a hopeful picture, emphasizing the demand for such refined skill sets, not just in media but across industries that are embracing the digital revolution.
However, as the animation domain remains relatively stable amid industry upheavals, one can’t help but think about the future.
With Hollywood actors and writers advocating for contractual changes and animation making headlines for its stressful and demanding nature, the landscape is far from settled. Marvel Studios’ recent move to permit unionization for visual effects artists, following vocal complaints about working conditions, sets a precedent, as does Seth Rogen’s insistence on healthy working conditions on the set of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem.
As the curtain falls on Lucasfilm’s Singapore studio, its legacy is far from over. The trails it has blazed continue to light a path for many, with characters like Ahsoka Tano exemplifying its timeless impact.
As she gears up for her live-action series premiere on Disney+ this August, one can’t help but marvel at the Singapore studio’s monumental contribution to the Star Wars universe.
