Blur opens new theme park division

Vet film-ride helmer Takata to top

By MARC GRASER

Blur Studio, a 3-D animation, f/x and design shop, has launched a theme park and special venue division to be headed by vet film-ride helmer Yas Takata.

The Venice-based company plans to act as an originator of content and as a production company for other producers.

"The new division represents a commitment to pursuing theme park films and other large-format work as part of our core business," said Blur co-founder Tim Miller.

Miller and Takata recently co-directed ride pic "Meteor Attack," created as a custom film attraction for the Tobu Zoo Park in Tokyo. It has since been licensed by Iwerks Entertainment, which will distribute it to other simulator venues throughout the world.

The duo are also working together on "Ride the Records," a second large-format ride film which Takata is helming for Guinness World of Records Attractions.

"Through these experiences, we've realized that we make a great team, and we'd like to continue to work together and offer clients that expertise," Miller said.

Takata has helmed and produced pics for Iwerks Entertainment, Imax, Busch Gardens, Busch Entertainment's Sea World parks in Florida and San Diego as well as the MGM Grand in Las Vegas.

"I'm really proud to be part of Blur," Takata said. "Tim has done an outstanding job leading a cohesive group that is equal parts talent, drive and creativity. I have high expectations for what we can do together."

Blur most recently completed a custom ride film for the Novellus Corp., helmed by Scott Compton, as well as a special venue pic for Viacom's "Star Trek World Tour," a simulation attraction re-creating the U.S.S. Enterprise which is skedded to open in Singapore's Suntec City in December.

Blur has created visuals for Paramount's "South Park: Bigger, Longer and Uncut," Disney's "Deep Rising," TV shows "The Visitor" and "The Outer Limits" as well as commercials for Pepsi, McDonald's, MasterCard and America Online.