Weta FX
franci@olcese.net
CA
https://www.fmolcese.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/francescomatteoolcese/
https://www.imdb.com/name/nm12811539/
Francesco Matteo Olcese
Francesco Matteo Olcese is a Technical Director specializing in character rigging, scripting, modeling, and FX. He is currently a Creatures Technical Director at Wētā FX and previously served as a Technical Director for Character Modeling and Rigging at Pixar Animation Studios. He holds an MA in Animation and Visual Effects from the Academy of Art University, with a focus on VFX.
Originally from Italy, Francesco moved to the United States to pursue a career in visual effects and has since contributed to a wide range of projects, managing complex workflows and tight deadlines. Known for his adaptability and technical curiosity, he continually expands his expertise while striving for high-quality, detail-driven work that brings realistic characters and effects to life. He currently resides in Vancouver, Canada.
Role with the VES
Member
Work Experience
Weta FX — Vancouver, BCCreatures Technical Director | Nov 2022 – Present
• Delivered photo-realistic rigs with anatomically accurate skeleton, muscle, and skin systems.
• Defined advanced animation controls and rigging puppets for production.
• Partnered with Modeling, Animation, and Creature FX to create dynamic, realistic results.
• Mentored junior TDs and provided documentation to improve rigging workflows.
Pixar Animation Studios — Emeryville, CA
Technical Director, Character Model/Rig | Jan 2020 – Nov 2022
• Developed and maintained production-ready character rigs and models for feature animation.
• Collaborated with directors and creative leads to meet artistic and technical specifications.
• Enhanced rigging pipeline with tool development, improving animator efficiency.
• Provided documentation and support to ensure cross-department usability.
Apple — Cupertino, CA
3D Specialist | Aug 2016 – May 2017
• Designed 3D Flyover City Tours for Apple Maps using proprietary software.
• Worked on geospatial data correction and QA testing for 3D products.
• Mentored and trained new hires, improving onboarding processes.
Freelance — San Francisco, CA
Technical Artist | Jul 2016 – Jan 2019
• Delivered rigs and technical solutions under tight deadlines.
• Built Python and MEL rigging tools to automate workflows and reduce setup time.
Film Credits
Avatar: Fire and AshElio
Win or Lose
Kingdom of The Planet of the Apes
Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire
Monarch: Legacy of Monsters
The Family Plan
Lightyear
Turning Red
