STARNO was called upon as a freelance Matte Painter to contribute to the rich visual universe of Star Trek Beyond, the third installment in the rebooted franchise directed by Justin Lin. This project was mandated by Atomic Fiction (now Method Studios), a prominent Montreal-based VFX powerhouse known for their cutting-edge environment work.
The core of the mandate focused on creating complex matte paintings for the exotic planet Altamid. Our work involved the digital creation and integration of "alien vegetation"—extraordinary and strange plant life that needed to feel both otherworldly and photorealistic.
This collaboration required a high level of detail to match the high-speed action and the distinct aesthetic of the Star Trek universe. By blending organic textures with futuristic lighting, we helped build the immersive and hostile environments that the crew of the USS Enterprise encounters after being stranded.
In Star Trek Beyond, the crew of the USS Enterprise is halfway into their five-year mission when they are attacked by a powerful, unstoppable wave of unknown aliens. With their ship destroyed and the crew stranded on the remote planet Altamid, Captain James T. Kirk (Chris Pine), Commander Spock (Zachary Quinto), and the rest of the team must face a new ruthless enemy, Krall, who has a deep-seated hatred for the Federation.
As they fight to survive in a hostile alien wilderness, they encounter Jaylah, a brave scavenger who helps them navigate the terrain. The film is a celebration of the franchise's themes of unity and exploration, featuring breathtaking visual effects and a modern take on the classic Star Trek spirit.
Frédéric St-Arnaud
Atomic Fiction / Method Studios / Paramount Pictures
FEATURE FILM – 2016