From Concept to Creation: Exploring Virtual Production with Oceanus Media Global & Oak3 Films

16 SUSS students from the Production Interest Group (PDIG) were offered an exclusive opportunity to visit the Oceanus Media Global (OMG) on 7 February 2025 to tour a professional production set and engage with renowned Oak3 Films Director of Production, Lim Suat Yen. This unique opportunity was meaningful for aspiring filmmakers who wanted to observe what goes on behind the scenes when these industry experts are working in action.

OMG began by sharing industry trends and latest happenings before the set visit.

OMG is a leading multimedia company dealing with immersive media, virtual production, and experiential content. Their most notable works include visual effects for the National Day Parade 2021 and Universal Studios’ Halloween Horror Nights from 2015 to 2023. Their wealth of experience in the production field, particularly in Southeast Asia, is what makes such learning journeys valuable and eye-opening.

PDIG members had the opportunity to step inside OMG’s studio and observe live filming.

During the production set visit, members witnessed the use of LED screens for scenic shots and learned how filmmakers integrate virtual production techniques throughout the filming process. As one of the on-set crew members explained, OMG takes great lengths in lighting and storyboarding processes to make shoot days more productive. This means less intensive work in post-production by eliminating certain steps usually needed in traditional shoots. PDIG member, Yuan Ting, who saw the process in real-time said, “I learnt how certain scenes could be created with advanced technology, in the creative industry.”

Additionally, the studio uses LED panels displaying realistic backgrounds created and rendered in Unreal Engine 4, a 3D graphics tool widely used in video games and film production. They place stickers on the ceiling for movement tracking to ensure the 3D environments are synced when the camera pans between the set. “What really impressed me was how the technology could detect space in the room and project an image so nicely. It looked hyper-realistic rather than out of place,” said PDIG member Adam.

PDIG members greatly enjoyed the set visit and excitedly shared their experiences afterwards.

Following the set tour, members engaged in a discussion with Director Lim Suat Yen, who has been working in the local film industry for nearly 30 years, directing iconic films like The Chosen One (2024) and The Road Less Travelled (1997). Director Lim avidly recalled the early days of her career when directors still used 16mm film roll cameras to shoot movies, which also led to sharings about massive industry changes that happened throughout her career. She encouraged the students, saying, “The industry is always looking for people who can share their stories so please continue nurturing your love for media and join us.” This sentiment resonated with many students, including Nyah, who felt deeply inspired: “Despite being in such a competitive industry, people have adapted and reached new heights with their innovative use of technology. That passion for filmmaking shows in every aspect of the production.”

Director Lim answering PDIG members’ questions during the Q&A session.

The tour concluded on a high note, with more students expressing interest in local film production and the future creative potential of technology. Gautier, one of the attendees, left a glowing review about the Production House Tour. “I particularly enjoyed seeing how old and new technology was integrated to produce a film,” he said.

Everyone gathered for a commemorative group photo at the end of the tour. (Photo by: Sneha)

We extend our gratitude to Oceanus Media Global and Oak3 Films for hosting the tour and providing SUSS PDIG members with an unforgettable learning experience.