Weta FX and TAICCA to formalize AI hub deal at Nov. 6 festival

Weta FX, the Wellington-based visual effects studio responsible for the “Lord of the Rings” and “Avatar” franchises, will formally announce a partnership with the Taiwan Creative Content Agency (TAICCA) on Nov. 6. The agreement aims to position Taiwan as a primary center for AI-driven screen production in Asia. The launch will occur on the main stage at the Taiwan Creative Content Fest (TCCF) in Taipei, immediately following the opening ceremony.

The studio has been building a presence on the island for several months. In August, Weta FX executives attended the Taoyuan International Film & Technology Forum. CEO Daniel Seah, who grew up in Taiwan, described the deal as having a personal dimension for him. The partnership represents a continuation of that engagement, moving from forum discussions to a formalized agreement.

TAICCA, established by Taiwan’s Ministry of Culture in 2019, supports content across film, TV, animation, publishing, comics, music, gaming, and the performing arts. The agency manages investment, co-production schemes, and international partnerships. This new initiative fits within its mandate to utilize new technologies for content creation. A recent market platform called TTXC Innovations also sought to connect creators, tech developers, and investors, demonstrating the agency's focus on bridging the gap between technology and cultural content.

The forthcoming pact is structured around three specific areas: joint investment, AI research and development, and the training of new talent. Weta FX will contribute visual effects expertise, a history of international productions, and a global network. TAICCA will provide access to Taiwan’s AI capabilities and advanced tech sector. The goal is to integrate Taiwanese technologists and creatives into the worldwide screen business. Specific financial details and operational terms are being withheld until the Nov. 6 launch.

Sue Wang, chair of TAICCA, will appear at the event with three Weta FX leaders. CEO Daniel Seah, chief technology officer Kimball Thurston, and VFX supervisor Sheldon Stopsack will join her on stage. The studio, which has won eight Oscars for visual effects, 17 Academy Science & Technology Awards, eight BAFTAs, 10 VES Awards, and five Emmys, currently operates outposts in Vancouver and Melbourne.

Weta FX is currently working on several major titles, including “The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum” and Marvel Studios’ “Avengers: Doomsday.” The studio’s most recent release was “Avatar: Fire and Ash” in 2025. The new partnership is expected to influence the studio's future production pipeline in Asia.

The formal announcement will take place during the festival's main programming. The event serves as the public debut of the strategic alliance between the New Zealand firm and the Taiwanese government agency.