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Rising Sun Pictures Appoints Phil Barrenger as Head of Operations

The newly created position will oversee artistic and technological aspects of RSP and report to President Jennie Zeiher.

Rising Sun Pictures (RSP) has announced the appointment of Phil Barrenger to the new role of Head of Operations, working out of RSP Headquarters in Adelaide, South Australia. In this new position, Barrenger will oversee the artist and technological aspects of the business and report to RSP President, Jennie Zeiher. 

Barrenger spent almost 13 years at Weta Digital (now Wētā FX) where he worked on projects as a CG Supervisor, Head of Department (Lighting) and Senior Head of Department (Shots).  He most recently contributed on Avatar: The Way of Water.  

This is Barrenger’s second stint with RSP, having started there in 2005 as a previsualisation artist on Superman Returns before working as CG Supervisor on projects including Charlotte’s Web and Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince.

“Phil is a unique individual; he epitomizes empathy, understanding and kindness,” said Zeiher “This, combined with his exceptional intellect, will be key to helping drive RSP forward.  It is an absolute privilege to have Phil back on the team.  We have ambitious plans ahead for RSP inside of the Pitch Black company, and it is my firm belief that Phil alongside our executive and management teams, will take us there. RSP has a reputation as a much-trusted partner to our clients and staff, and as a result we are in demand globally.  Phil will join our work family in early 2023 and will be instrumental in helping RSP provide the best client and staff experiences in the industry.” 

Barrenger stated, “Returning to RSP holds a special significance for me, as the company gave me my first break in the film industry and played a pivotal role in my personal and professional development.  I am thrilled to be joining the Executive team in a role which I can make a positive difference. I'm excited to learn, lead, serve, and leverage my experience to help RSP continue to strive for excellence and push the boundaries of what is possible.”  

As part of the newly formed Pitch Black Company, RSP continues to grow. In April 2022, RSP launched its Brisbane studio while its Adelaide studio continues to expand, doubling in revenue over the past two years. 

Source: Rising Sun Pictures

Whitney Whitener's picture

Whitney is a freelance writer focusing on VFX-driven fantasy film & TV as well as preschool animation.