CREATIVES from Bournemouth are celebrating after being recognised at 98th Academy Awards.
Graduates from two universities, Arts University Bournemouth and Bournemouth University were recognised for their contributions to Oscar-winning films at the 2026 awards on Sunday, March 15.
Former Bournemouth University students Fernando Morillo and Stephen Cullingford are celebrating after contributing to two Oscar-winning productions.
Fernando Morillo (Image: Submitted)
Fernando Morillo, who graduated BU in 2014 with a master’s in visual effects was part of the team at Sony Pictures Imageworks that worked on KPop Demon Hunters which won an Oscar in the category of Best Animated Feature category.
Fernando said: “It’s surprising to see how much love all around the world the film has received and it’s insane, I feel great.”
“One of the most rewarding things about working in FX is that there’s always room to be creative. It’s always fun to explore unique ways to bring crazy visuals to life.”
Another Oscars win went to film Avatar: Fire and Ash for Best Visual Effects.
Stephen Cullingford (Image: Submitted)
Former BU computer animation graduate, Stephen Cullingford who worked on Avatar as part of the team at Weta FX said his time at the university gave a strong foundation in both the artistic and technical aspects of visual effects.
Stephen said: “The course encouraged curiosity and problem solving, which are skills I ‘ve relied on throughout my career working on digital characters and facial performance in film.
“It’s great to see so many BU graduates contributing to major projects across visual effects.”
Professor Christos Gatzidis, pro-vice chancellor dean for BU’s faculty of media, science and technology, which includes the media school and the National Centre for Computer Animation, said: “We are proud to be developing graduates with the technical skills and creativity required to bring continued innovation to the media industry.
“The Oscars recognise exceptional talent and every one of those nominated should be justifiably proud of their achievements.”
Sentimental Value team (Image: AUB facebook)
For Arts University Bournemouth (AUB), alumnus Lars Thomas Skare, won best international film for Sentimental Value.
Lars was first assistant director for the movie.
BA (Hons) film production graduate Lars took home Norway’s first BAFTA last month.