Visual effects legend Phil Tippett shuts down studio, auctioning off iconic props
Phil Tippett, the Oscar-winning visual effects pioneer behind classic films like Star Wars and Jurassic Park, is closing his longtime Berkeley studio, per reports from JoBlo and TheWrap. After 35 years, the studio is holding an auction to liquidate decades of props, models, and equipment.
An "everything must go" sale took place August 28-30 at the 6,200-square-foot facility. Items up for grabs included screen-used models like an AT-AT from The Empire Strikes Back, prototypes and miniatures from Starship Troopers, and storyboards and models from Tippett's own Mad God. The auction also featured the studio's practical gear, including 3D printers, lighting rigs, and welding tools.
The closure follows a difficult financial period. According to JoBlo, Tippett Studio sold a majority stake to Indian VFX firm PhantomFX in 2024 before filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. PhantomFX completed its acquisition in July 2025.
In a statement posted to social media, the company clarified that a Toronto-based studio remains "in active production on a large feature film." They stated they are evolving their "physical footprint" and will use external facilities for projects requiring dedicated stages or fabrication.
Tippett told Berkeleyside he has "made a lot of painful decisions" as practical effects work has become less common. He is keeping his two Academy Awards but is parting with much of his physical archive. The 74-year-old told CBS News he has no plans to retire, saying, "I will die with my sword in my hand."
