CG Garage

Industry Roundtable — James Cameron, AI, Sinners, and Indie films

by Christopher Nichols CG Garage

Loading podcast...

We’re trying something new this week and taking a break from the usual interview format. This episode kicks off a roundtable discussion format that we plan to revisit every few months. Chris is joined in person by Daniel Thron and James Blevins, both CG Garage podcast veterans, for a relaxed but sharp conversation about recent events in technology and the movie industry.

The group starts with James Cameron’s bold claim that he wants to use AI to cut costs without laying anyone off, and whether that’s even realistic in today’s production model. They also discuss MUBI, a platform well known for championing indie films, and why its $1 billion valuation signals a shift in what audiences and investors are willing to support. From the box office surprise of Sinners to the decline of risk-taking in studio films, it’s a wide-ranging talk about where things are going and how we might all adapt. 

Links:

James Cameron Wants To Use AI To “Cut The Cost” Of Filmmaking Without “Laying Off Half The Staff” >

Sequoia bets on indie films with $100mn Mubi fundraising >

‘Sinners’ Box Office Success Puts It in Elite Company >


About the author

Christopher Nichols

Chris is a CG industry veteran and Director of Chaos Labs. He can also be heard regularly as the host of the CG Garage podcast which attracts 20,000 weekly listeners. With a background in both VFX and Design, Chris has worked for Gensler, Digital Domain, Imageworks and Method Studios. His credits include Maleficent, Oblivion and Tron: Legacy.

Subscribe to our newsletter.

Learn all about the latest news, company updates and recommended content, cherry-picked for you.
© 2026 Chaos Software EOOD. All Rights reserved. Chaos®, V-Ray® and Phoenix FD® are registered trademarks of Chaos Software EOOD in Bulgaria and/or other countries.