McNiel has worked on numerous commercials, music videos and feature films since 1993. After moving up the ranks to become a Flame artist at 525 Studios, he contributed to music videos such as Michael and Janet Jackson's "Scream," Madonna's "Bedtime Stories," and Smashing Pumpkins' "Tonight Tonight." His feature film credits include "Armageddon," "Twister," and "Flubber."
"My objective with Jack is to build a company specializing in high-end visual imagery and providing exceptional client service," explains McNiel. "We enjoy the collaboration and by coming on board earlier in the process, we can save our clients money while conceptualizing and executing the creative."
The studio is equipped with three HD-capable Autodesk Flame systems, seven CG stations and three design stations running a combination of Apple Shake, Alias Maya, NewTek LightWave and Adobe After Effects software.
In addition to McNiel, the Jack team includes executive producer/VFX supervisor Dan Connelly, who brings with him broad experience from the agency, production and post production realms. His past includes serving as a producer at TBWA/Chiat/Day Los Angeles and executive producer/VFX supervisor at Sea Level. He is also the founder of D-Train Productions, a production company that handles music videos, commercials and TV pilots, as well specialty projects like DVDs.
The studio has already completed music videos for Queens of the Stone Age and Black Eyed Peas. Its recent commercial work includes spots for Pantene and Nissan.