FMX 2025 – Transformation, craft and community

FMX 2025 gathered the global creative community once again in Stuttgart for four intense days of insight, inspiration, and reconnection. For The Yard VFX team, it was a chance to stay at the pulse of our industry and to contribute to the discussions happening this year. 

FMX 2025 took place in Stuttgart early May, welcoming 3,200 attendees from around the world. Under the theme “Rhythm of Change,” this year’s edition deeply mirrored the state of the animation, visual effects, and immersive media sectors. This year’s edition was very special to The Yard VFX team, as it was the first year the studio contributed to the event, hosting conferences and participating in roundtables.

And as usual, FMX brought four intense days of insight, inspiration, and reconnection in a moment of genuine togetherness. Here’s what stood out for us:

Transformation – Rethinking Models, Tools, and the Future

From the impact of artificial intelligence to the shifting economics of streaming platforms’ original productions, transformation wasn’t just a theme at FMX 2025 — it was a necessity.

This year’s panels didn’t shy away from difficult truths: the animation and VFX industries are still feeling the ripple effects of the pandemic, labor strikes, and global market shifts. The economic impact of fewer productions is real and has put pressure on the entire sector, pushing us to rethink how we work, hire and educate the next generation of artists. 

In several sessions, industry leaders addressed the evolving labor market, and sparked important discussions not only on how the industry is structured, but also on how education and training programs are evolving to meet the needs of a constantly shifting landscape and market opportunities beyond the traditional film and TV industry.

Many conferences and roundtables tackled the value creation, and how studios can reposition themselves in the value chain—not just as vendors, but as creative and strategic partners and even IP creators— while also exposing the tension between financial predictability and creative freedom.

As expected, technology and more particularly artificial intelligence took center stage with a more matured discourse : AI is no longer just a buzzword, but a powerful toolset.  From automating workflows to enabling new forms of storytelling, AI is reshaping how artists and studios operate. Still, the promise of AI also demands a deep rethinking of creative processes, ethical boundaries, and business models—a true paradigm shift.

Craft – Elevating Storytelling Across Platforms

In the face of economic uncertainty and rapid technological shifts, the art of visual storytelling remains not only alive but flourishing. FMX 2025 was a celebration of that creative resilience. From non-verbal narrative in animation like Flow to the most VFX-heavy productions, this year’s program struck a healthy balance between theatrical releases and streaming content—often in their second seasons, offering a rich cross-section of the industry’s best work. The showcased projects reflected a broad artistic ambition and technical mastery on set and behind computers, from pre- to post-production. FMX remains a place where the tools and artistry behind high-profile productions are shared with honesty and depth.

At The Yard, we were proud to be part of this creative showcase. Fabian Nowak, Head of FX, gave a detailed talk on the complex FX simulations behind The Rings of Power – Season 2— one of Prime Video’s most successful and acclaimed productions, winner of a BAFTA TV Craft Award for Best VFX. His presentation walked attendees through the artistic and technical challenges of building immersive fantasy worlds at scale, illustrating how cutting-edge technology and creative problem-solving go hand in hand.

Amid discussions of AI and automation, what stood out was the human talent behind every frame. Teams continue to adapt, push boundaries, and craft emotionally rich, visually stunning content — no matter the format or platform.

Community & Connection – A Shared Pulse

While FMX 2025 laid bare the industry’s uncertainties, it also highlighted something just as powerful: a creative community more connected — and committed — than ever before. This year’s edition felt like both a summit and a reunion, a space to exchange not just ideas but aspirations.

Conversations on stage brought together professionals from studios around the world, exchanging insights and perspectives from diverse regions. Notably, Laurens Ehrmann, Founder and Senior VFX Supervisor at The Yard, joined a global panel organized by World VFX Day to discuss how local policies, international trends, and emerging technologies are reshaping the VFX landscape. The conversation underscored the complexity of the forces at play — and the importance of continuing to educate stakeholders on the value VFX studios create. Positioning ourselves as strategic creative partners, not just service providers, is key to influencing future business models amid growing competition. A couple of talks even tackled the viability of international union in the VFX industry.

Outside the auditoriums, the FMX spirit thrived as the event remained a powerful space for networking and authentic connection. The Yard team participated in WIFT Germany’s first Coffee Talk, organized in partnership with VES Germany, AG Animationsfilm, World VFX Day, and Produktionsallianz—a relaxed and inspiring breakfast event bringing together women and allies from across animation, VFX, film, and media. We also joined the VES Germany luncheon and other side events that created valuable opportunities for open conversations and meaningful exchanges with peers old and new.

FMX 2025 didn’t deliver a roadmap — it did something more important: it reflected the pulse of an industry in evolution. In a time of disruption, it offered rhythm, reflection, and realignment. It reminded us that change isn’t just something to adapt to—it’s something to shape.

At The Yard VFX, we left Stuttgart inspired by new ideas, strengthened partnerships, and a deeper sense of purpose. There are challenges ahead, yes—but there is also creativity, collaboration, we’re ready to move to the rhythm of what comes next.

Don’t miss the opportunity to watch the many conferences that are still available on-demand on the FMX platform by clicking here.

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