Amid the abrupt departure of Marvel Studios' President of Physical, Post Production, VFX and Animation, Victoria Alonso, some anonymous workers are pushing back on the narrative that the executive created a toxic workplace environment.
According to Variety, while several stories have emerged claiming Alonso was a "kingmaker" that frequently blocked out contractors or employees that angered her, an unnamed senior VFX artist pushed back on this narrative. "The idea of a very senior exec terrifying rank and file artists, per some reports, feels a bit off," they said. This was corroborated by various "up and coming" Marvel Cinematic Universe actors who described Alonso as "a supportive force on set." An anonymous former Disney executive also described her as "the epitome of professional." These quotes come after news broke that Alonso may have been fired from her role at Marvel Studios rather than resigning from the position.
As the MCU enters Phase 5 of its sprawling narrative, the franchise has encountered a great deal of criticism regarding the quality of its VFX and CGI. Several artists have suggested that the subpar work is a result of Marvel Studios' treatment of its contracted artists as the final product suffers from shifting deadlines, constant changes to the material and a general lack of respect or understanding for the craft. Alonso's name has been mentioned by several VFX artists as a core factor in the issue, with many bringing up her supposed tendency to write off creators. "The blacklist is very talked about," said one worker. "I don’t know anyone that’s seen it for real. But it’s a common thing that comes up whenever effects people talk together. ‘If you do X, Y, or Z, Marvel will blacklist you and you won’t be working for them again."
Marvel Studios Cuts Ties
While information around Alonso's reported termination is still scarce, insiders have stated that the decision was made by The Walt Disney Company's legal team alongside various company executives, including Disney Entertainment co-chairperson Alan Bergman. Alonso was allegedly "blindsided" by the move and an official reason behind her departure has yet to be confirmed.
Alonso is known as one of the co-founders of the entire Marvel Cinematic Universe, having served as a producer on every project in the franchise going all the way back to Iron Man in 2008. Her next move in the industry remains unknown.
Source: Variety