The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences presented its 2021 Scientific and Technical Awards on Saturday (Feb. 13). It recognized 17 technologies represented by 55 individuals in a virtual ceremony hosted by filmmaker Nia DaCosta.
James Cameron paid tribute to the honorees, stating: “The motion picture innovation train never stops. Its progress is in fact vital to the art form. Technical advancement is disrupting the creative process at a breakneck pace. Filmmaking shouldn’t merely keep up, it has the power to lead.”
The honorees also included three women: Hayley Iben of Pixar Animation Studios and Kelly Ward Hammel and Maryann Simmons of Walt Disney Animation Studio. This is particularly noteworthy as the technical achievements are mostly dominated by men. During the virtual ceremony, Kathleen Kennedy highlighted the achievements of women working in technical roles.