John explains the certification process for the Nuke for Trainers program and Mike looks forward to all the exciting interviews he’ll be doing for the upcoming Oscars and VES awards.

Nominees for the Oscars have been announced, giving Mike and John an opportunity to discuss what’s being honored this year.

A discussion on how big events like the Super Bowl drive innovation both in advertising creativity and in new technology, and some interesting thoughts on how important the right kind of light is for effects work.

Down in Australia, John gets a chance to speak directly with Mike about the importance of perspective behind the scenes, both at fxphd and in studio production.

John and Mike greet the new term a Happy New Year and are excited to talk all about the great new courses and returning favorites for this January at fxphd.

John and Mike wrap up the year and end of the October term business, with hints of what’s to come and well wishes for everyone this holiday season.

The guys report in from Hong Kong with an update on what’s been impressing them and what’s still to look forward to at Siggraph Asia.

The guys gear up for their flights to Hong Kong for the upcoming Siggraph Asia and discuss some of the panels they’ll be looking forward to.

With the ever expanding international community, John and Mike discuss the challenges and advantages of the 24 hour production cycle as well as the importance of research for a growing industry.

Week six and Mike pitches an idea for the upcoming Background Fundamentals Challenge #2 for the October term and beyond.