Industrial Light & Magic (ILM) has brought back the magic of motion-controlled miniatures for Star Wars: Skeleton Crew. Among their creations is the Onyx Cinder, a stunning spacecraft complete with servo-operated engines and functional lights. Built by John Goodson and supervised by John Knoll and the ILM Miniature Unit, this model wasn’t just for show—it played a pivotal role in blending practical effects with digital artistry.
The Onyx Cinder was used for in-camera final shots while also informing the digital model, creating a seamless transition between physical and digital visuals. This innovative approach showcases ILM’s dedication to pushing boundaries in visual storytelling. Catch ILM’s spectacular miniature work in the first three episodes of Skeleton Crew, and stay tuned for more insights into their process!