With the advent of technology and the rise of young, talented creatives who challenge norms and reshape the filmmaking landscape, the Philippine cinema industry continues to grow and evolve. But compared to what the international movie scene has already achieved, the Philippines still has a long way to go. That’s why learning from industry masters presents a valuable opportunity for aspiring film students.

Making this possible, iAcademy—a premier tech and design school based in Makati and Cebu—has announced the addition of Oliver Kirchhoff, a world-renowned visual effects (VFX) artist, to its esteemed faculty. With an impressive portfolio that includes work for Marvel Studios and other globally recognized productions, Kirchhoff brings a wealth of experience to the institution.

Spanning an extraordinary 28 years in the 3D and VFX industry, Oliver’s career began in 3D CAD and simulation, working with prestigious clients such as BMW, Siemens, ABB, and Kuka before transitioning into entertainment. Over the past two decades, he has contributed to major productions, including “Avengers: Endgame” and “Iron Man 3” for Marvel Studios, “Star Wars: Episode IX - The Rise of Skywalker,” and acclaimed TV shows like “The Mandalorian.” His expertise extends to high-profile commercials, solidifying his status as a leader in the global VFX industry.

In a conversation with Manila Bulletin Lifestyle, Oliver shared what led him to teach in the Philippines and what he looks forward to in a Filipino classroom.

“Teaching and mentoring have always been a natural part of my life. Even as a child, I enjoyed showing others how to do things—it’s something that has always come naturally to me,” he said. “Throughout my VFX career, I frequently mentored team members on projects, helping them refine their skills and navigate complex workflows. Beyond that, I’ve taught my own 3D course at the university where I studied mechanical engineering, trained engineers in 3D simulation software, and led multiple courses at The Animation Workshop in Denmark as a guest teacher.”

Eventually, his passion for teaching was further fueled by his son, who played a role in influencing him to join iAcademy. “Over time, I realized that sharing my knowledge wasn’t just something I enjoyed—it was something I wanted to pursue more intentionally,” he shared. “That’s what led me to offer my expertise to iAcademy. The school came to my attention through my wife’s son, who knew someone who had studied there. It felt like the right place to contribute, helping to develop the next generation of VFX artists in the Philippines.”

The VFX master also hopes that his extensive experience working in various countries and exposure to different cultures will help him connect with students in the Philippines—and most importantly, help them hone their skills.

“My classes will be conducted in person, allowing me to observe students’ work in real time. Every student has a unique approach to art—there's no single ‘correct’ way to create. This setting enables me to provide personalized guidance, address their questions, and offer feedback tailored to their artistic process,” he said. “Europeans have a different attitude toward teachers than Filipinos, and I’m eager to learn more about these cultural differences and how to navigate them effectively. Over time, I’ve gained valuable experience and developed a better understanding of how to engage Filipino students in a way that resonates with them.”

Meanwhile, iAcademy—long known for its top-tier faculty, composed of game changers and thought leaders—is excited about the expertise Oliver will share, not just with students but also in contributing to the institution’s growth.

“Oliver is currently part of our Animation Department and is teaching a course on 3D sculpting. He will also share his expertise in upcoming courses on visual effects,” said Raquel Perez-Wong, president and COO of iAcademy, in an interview with Manila Bulletin Lifestyle. “iAcademy students taking our animation program can enroll in Oliver Kirchhoff’s courses and have the option to take add-on subjects. Having him on board is a testament to our commitment to providing students with unparalleled learning opportunities and experiences.”

Interested students who want to join Oliver’s class should visit iAcademy’s official website for more information.