Not long ago, Technicolor, employing thousands of VFX artists worldwide collapsed. Just like that, one major pillar holding up our industry crumbled, leaving countless artists facing uncertainty. An event like this doesn’t just shake careers; its aftershocks ripple through every corner, from job security fears right down through morale.

Then came an unexpected gesture.

Amidst this turmoil, Foundry offered free, no-strings-attached, three-month licenses for Nuke, Mari, and Katana. Their goal was clear: give affected artists tools and breathing room, whether for building reels, sharpening skills, or preparing for their next opportunity.

No agenda. No catch. Just help.

But instead? Cynicism.

“Work on what shots?!”
“PR stunt.”
“Why not fix your pricing model instead?”

On a thread, I watched as people dismissed, mocked, and tore apart what was, at its core, an act meant for good. As if any attempt that wasn’t flawless couldn’t possibly be worth acknowledging.

This is where cynicism becomes dangerous.

Yes, Foundry isn’t perfect. No company is. But there’s something we need reminding: businesses must turn profits. Without them, they can’t innovate, support artists, or weather crises like these. If they fail, they’re gone. And let’s be honest: had Foundry done nothing, those same voices would’ve screamed, “Where were they?”

Here’s what I see: cynicism is easy. Cynicism is stagnant. Cynicism gives people permission not just to complain, but to stop trying.

And yet, while some mock, others quietly accept. They pick up those licenses, practice new techniques, and add shots they’re proud enough about that hiring managers will notice. When this storm passes, they’ll be ready.

This post isn’t about defending Foundry. This post is about us, our industry. If we tear down every act simply because we don’t like its source or think “it’s not enough,” what future are we creating for ourselves?

Goodwill doesn’t need perfection. What goodwill needs is participation.

I’ve seen what hope, effort, and skill can build, even from scraps.

And I’ve also seen what cynicism destroys.

The difference between cynicism and growth is the choice to act.

𝟵𝟬-𝗱𝗮𝘆 𝗽𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗹𝗶𝗰𝗲𝗻𝘀𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗡𝘂𝗸𝗲, 𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗶, 𝗼𝗿 𝗞𝗮𝘁𝗮𝗻𝗮 - https://lnkd.in/gtibvKRR