How Kevin Parry is mastering the art of VFX and fan engagement

From Hollywood to social media: A visual effects journey

Kevin Parry is a visual effects pro whose creative journey has taken him from the halls of prestigious animation studios to the forefront of social media stardom. With over 2 billion views across his platforms, Kevin has become a household name in the world of stop-motion animation and clever visual tricks.

After honing his craft at LAIKA Studios, where he contributed to Oscar-nominated films like "Kubo and the Two Strings" and "Missing Link," Kevin made a bold pivot. He returned to his hometown of Toronto, armed with Hollywood-level expertise and a vision for something new.
Today, Kevin boasts over 8.5 million followers across Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok. His work spans from viral videos that challenge viewers' perception to collaborations with major brands like Lego and Mercedes. What sets Kevin apart is not just his technical skill, but his ability to blend traditional animation techniques with cutting-edge digital tools, creating content that stops scrollers in their tracks.

"I've always been fascinated by that part of the Internet, sensing where trends are going and where people's interests are, and how to hack your way into making a video more popular," Kevin explains. This intuition, combined with his unique approach to visual effects, has made him a standout figure in the digital content landscape.

Mastering the art of digital sleight of hand

What truly sets Kevin apart in the world of VFX is his unique approach to creating visual illusions. Rather than relying heavily on computer-generated imagery (CGI), Kevin prefers to use real objects and practical effects in his work. He describes his style as "digital sleight of hand”

This approach not only sets Kevin's work apart visually but also engages his audience in a unique way. Viewers are drawn into trying to figure out how each effect was achieved, creating a more interactive and memorable experience. It's a testament to Kevin's skill that even when fans understand the mechanics behind his creations, the end results still inspire awe and admiration.

Sharing the process and engaging fans

One of Kevin's innovative approaches to fan engagement is his willingness to share his creative process. Through his Patreon, he offers behind-the-scenes content, including a video that gives fans an exclusive look into his ideation process. "With each piece I create, I find one little thing that I'd like to improve on," he says.

This transparency extends to his social media as well. Kevin often shares time-lapse footage of his animation process and behind-the-scenes glimpses of his work. He also has a series on his Patreon called “Q&A Tuesdays” where he answers fan questions, talks through his art, gives sneak peaks of upcoming work & much more.