SCAD Savannah Film Festival Honors Ten Emerging Film Artisans for 2026

Ten creative film artisans have been named to Variety's Artisans to Watch list for 2026, and they will be honored at the SCAD Savannah Film Festival running from October 24 to 31. These professionals represent the behind-the-scenes talent that helped shape movies this year, ranging from big blockbusters to low-budget films. Past honorees have often gone on to receive Academy Award nominations, with several from last year's list winning Oscars. Among the honorees are sound designer Jimkes, visual effects supervisor Licinio, set designer Lott, film editor McClendon, cinematographer Newport-Berra, and composer Refree. Their work spans various notable film projects, highlighting specific creative challenges and collaborative processes behind 2026 cinema.

Artisans At Work

Sound designer Jimkes focused on authenticity for a World War II Pacific Theater film, utilizing the M1 Garand rifle's metallic ping to signal urgency and character decisions. Visual effects supervisor Licinio brought the faceless alien creature Rocky to life in "Project Hail Mary" through physical puppetry references and silent film inspirations like Charlie Chaplin. Set designer Lott created a Norwegian ice hotel entirely on stage for "Pluribus," drawing inspiration from real Scandinavian ice hotels. Editor McClendon approached cutting "Clarissa" with a focus on natural rhythms and matching actor performances. Cinematographer Newport-Berra worked on two actor-directed films, utilizing lens composition to create intimacy and tension in "The Invite" and focusing on character dynamics in "Club Kid." Composer Refree tied specific instruments like brass and piano to different generational characters in Netflix's "La Bola Negra."

Context

Film festivals like the SCAD Savannah event frequently host special panels and showcases to highlight below-the-line talent such as editors, sound designers, and cinematographers. Recognition from major trade publications helps these technical artists build industry profile ahead of the awards season. This annual spotlight underscores how crucial behind-the-scenes craft is to the final execution of feature films.