Zoic Studios, the visual effects and creative production house known for cutting-edge work across film, television, commercials and interactive media, has appointed Raphael A. Pimentel as director of animation.
An industry leader with decades of experience in animation and visual effects, Pimentel brings a deep well of creative vision, technical mastery, and team leadership to Zoic’s expanding animation department. Prior to joining Zoic, he served as animation director at Luma Pictures, where he led animation teams across the Los Angeles, Melbourne and Vancouver studios, shepherding complex character work on ambitious visual effects films.
Over his extensive career, Pimentel has contributed his animation expertise to a remarkable roster of major studio projects, often as animation supervisor, including blockbuster franchises and critically acclaimed features such as Spider-Man: “Home” Trilogy, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire and Lilo & Stitch. His credits span commercial, dramatic, and genre work, underscoring a rare versatility and commitment to nuanced, performance-driven animation.
“Raphael’s leadership, technical insight, and passion for storytelling through animation are exactly what Zoic needs as we continue to innovate in animated and VFX storytelling,” said Zoic Studios CEO Christopher Jones. “His track record in elevating animation performance and mentoring talent aligns perfectly with our commitment to artistic excellence and collaborative culture.”
Pimentel began his professional path in animation after studying at Miami International University of Art & Design, swiftly rising to leadership roles and earning the respect of peers across the visual effects community. Known for his keen eye for realism and his mentorship of emerging artists, he has been instrumental in shaping animation teams capable of tackling the most technically demanding sequences in contemporary production.
In his new role, Pimentel will oversee animation across Zoic’s feature, episodic, commercial and experiential projects, guiding creative direction, fostering talent growth, and expanding Zoic’s animation footprint in an increasingly competitive production landscape.
