Key Highlights
- Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively’s Group Effort Initiative (GEI) partners with Dimension and DNEG 360 for the Rise Up program.
- The Rise Up program offers in-depth industry experience to U.K. residents from diverse backgrounds.
- The initiative provides trainees with accommodation, transportation, and a stipend.
- Participants will work on prestigious projects like ‘Animal Friends’ (2025) and meet top industry executives.
(livesinsight.com) – The entertainment industry’s continual evolution has always depended on fresh talent and diverse perspectives. The Rise Up program, a collaboration between Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively’s Group Effort Initiative (GEI), Dimension, and DNEG 360, is a testament to this ethos. Launched to offer real-world experience and foster underrepresented communities within the U.K., the program stands as a beacon of inclusivity and innovation. Reynolds and Lively’s commitment to the creative community, combined with Dimension and DNEG 360’s technical prowess, creates an unparalleled opportunity for participants to immerse themselves in cutting-edge virtual production. One cannot overlook the strategic importance of such initiatives in cultivating a diverse and dynamic future for the entertainment industry. As major stakeholders, including Legendary Entertainment and Prime Focus Studios, rally behind this, the program not only aims to level the playing field but also to set a new standard for educational and professional pathways in film and production. At its core, Rise Up is more than an internship; it’s a movement towards a more inclusive entertainment landscape, leveraging the star power and industry clout of Reynolds and Lively.
Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively: Champions of Diversity in Entertainment
Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively have long been advocates for diverse representation in Hollywood. Their Group Effort Initiative (GEI), launched in August 2020, underscores their dedication to providing real-world experience for underrepresented communities within the entertainment sector. The program has already secured over 1,000 placements since its inception. Rise Up, the latest venture under GEI, promises to further this mission by collaborating with Dimension and DNEG 360. The initiative will offer extensive and hands-on professional experience in virtual production, a field rapidly gaining prominence. Reynolds and Lively, in their joint statement, expressed genuine admiration for the U.K.’s creative community and underscored their commitment to harnessing this partnership to foster the next generation of industry professionals. This joint effort showcases their vision for a more inclusive and equitable entertainment landscape, providing opportunities for those who might otherwise be overlooked.
Dimension and DNEG 360: Pioneering Virtual Production
Dimension and DNEG 360 are at the forefront of real-time and virtual production technology. The Rise Up program, hosted at Dimension’s state-of-the-art virtual production complex in London, offers participants unparalleled access to the latest advancements in the field. DNEG 360, an extension of Dimension’s collaboration with visual entertainment services powerhouse DNEG, brings a wealth of expertise and resources to the table. This partnership ensures that trainees receive top-notch education and experience, including working on high-profile projects like ‘Animal Friends’ (2025). The film, a blend of live-action and animation, is co-produced by Legendary Entertainment, Prime Focus Studios, and Reynolds’ own Maximum Effort. The Rise Up program is designed not just to educate but to inspire, providing a hands-on environment where diverse talent can thrive and innovate.
Inside the Rise Up Program
Opening on August 1, the Rise Up program is a comprehensive initiative aimed at U.K. residents from diverse backgrounds. Participants will receive accommodation, transportation, and a stipend, reducing financial barriers and allowing them to focus on their training. During their tenure, trainees will have the opportunity to work on set at Dimension’s virtual production complex, learning from seasoned professionals. They will also meet with prominent production executives, gaining insights and building networks that are crucial for career advancement. Nana Duncan, a participant in the program, expressed her excitement about the opportunity to delve into the world of virtual production and learn from industry experts. This hands-on experience is designed to equip participants with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in a competitive industry.
The Future of Storytelling
Reynolds and Lively’s partnership with Dimension and DNEG 360 on the Rise Up initiative represents a significant step towards revolutionizing the future of storytelling. By equipping underrepresented talent with the tools and expertise needed to excel in virtual production, the program aims to democratize access to high-level industry opportunities. Anna Lakshmi Sabapathy, chief people officer for Dimension and DNEG 360, highlighted the importance of nurturing underrepresented talent and championing authentic stories. This sentiment is echoed by Carl Gist, a producer for Dimension and DNEG 360, who emphasized the program’s role in expanding access and fostering a more inclusive workforce. By integrating advanced technology with diverse narratives, the Rise Up program is poised to push the boundaries of conventional storytelling, paving the way for innovative and inclusive cinematic experiences.
Industry Impact and Legacy
The Rise Up program exemplifies a powerful collaboration between entertainment giants and tech innovators, setting a new benchmark for industry training initiatives. Reynolds and Lively’s involvement brings significant attention and credibility, encouraging other industry players to prioritize diversity and inclusion. As the program evolves, its impact is likely to resonate throughout the entertainment sector, inspiring similar initiatives and fostering a more inclusive industry landscape. The partnership between GEI, Dimension, and DNEG 360 demonstrates that with the right support and resources, underrepresented talent can achieve remarkable success. The program’s success will undoubtedly inspire other organizations to adopt similar models, ensuring that the entertainment industry continues to evolve and diversify.