Cokie the Bear was all set for her photo shoot with Elizabeth Banks for Variety’s cover story on “Cocaine Bear.” However, no actual bears were used in the production.
Cokie was created through the efforts of photographer Art Streiber and a team of eight visual effects specialists from Weta FX, who made her for the film.
Streiber and Weta FX VFX supervisor Robin Hollander spent two weeks creating a narrative for the photos, depicting Cokie’s adventures from having her nose powdered to gracing a red carpet event.
Hollander stated, “It was exciting to capture Cokie’s essence in single images and not portray her as a villain.”
The team came prepared with a storyline to bring Cokie to life and show her personality. “We aimed to showcase Cokie’s character in each scenario,” Hollander said.
Despite the film’s trailer suggesting Cokie may be a vicious killer, the team emphasized that she is not aggressive, as evidenced by her smile in the photos. Hollander explained, “For the nose-powdering scene, the idea was that Cokie wasn’t thrilled about it, and it tickled her nose.”
The red carpet image nods to Cokie’s cocaine addiction, suggesting that she may have over-indulged. Hollander said, “She looks a bit defeated and not too interested.”
The cover photo was the highlight of the shoot, depicting a heartwarming moment between Elizabeth Banks and Cokie, who had just spent the day with friends.
Hollander described it as “a beautiful sense of connection between the two as they lie down by the fire after dinner.”
Weta FX’s talented team also included VFX producer Lily Lawrence and staff members Dan Cox, Ludovic Chailloleau, Daz Christie, Mohand Zennadi, Cedric Canlas, and Ryan Smith.
The creative process of bringing Cokie the Bear to life was a collaboration between Streiber and the team at Weta FX. Using computer-generated imagery, they were able to create a bear that was not only realistic but also conveyed the personality they wanted to showcase in the photos.
The team created a narrative highlighting the bond between Elizabeth Banks and Cokie, from the playful nose-powdering shot to the intimate cover photo.
The result was a stunning photo shoot showcasing modern technology’s capabilities in bringing fantastical creatures to life.
Despite not having a real bear on set, the team was able to create images that were both believable and emotional. It’s a testament to the artists’ skill and ability to bring a character to life through the power of imagination and technology.
The final photos entertained audiences and sparked conversations about human and animal relationships.
They also highlighted the important role that computer-generated imagery plays in modern storytelling and how it can be used to bring new and exciting characters to life.
The possibilities are endless, whether it’s Cokie the Bear or another fantastical creature. The Weta FX team and photographer Art Streiber have proven that they have the talent and expertise to bring these characters to life.
The creation of Cokie, the Bear for Variety’s cover, was a remarkable feat of creativity and technical prowess.
The Weta FX team, led by VFX supervisor Robin Hollander and photographer Art Streiber brought their expertise and vision to life, creating a realistic computer-generated bear that conveyed a unique personality.
The final photos showcased the incredible capabilities of modern technology and the role that computer-generated imagery plays in modern storytelling.
It is a testament to the artistry and imagination of the team and a reminder that anything is possible when the right people come together to bring their vision to life.
