The Visual Effects Society anointed Star Wars: The Force Awakens as their designated winner of the most visual effects guild prizes- that's something of a surprise, since I kinda thought it would go to Mad Max. In fact, MM didn't even come in second- that was The Revenant with its amazing animated bear. So yeah, I would pay attention to this when it comes to predicting the Visual Effects Oscar- normally they pick a Best Picture nominee, but Star Wars' dominance here is nothing to wave aside. They may want to give it something to acknowledge all of its success this year, and this would be the place.
2016 VES WINNERS
Outstanding Visual Effects in a Photoreal Feature: Star Wars: The Force Awakens
Outstanding Supporting Visual Effects in a Photoreal Feature: The Revenant
Outstanding Animated Performance in a Photoreal Feature: The Revenant
Outstanding Effects Simulations in a Photoreal Feature: Mad Max: Fury Road
Outstanding Virtual Cinematography in a Photoreal Project: Star Wars: The Force Awakens
Outstanding Created Environment in a Photoreal Feature:Star Wars: The Force Awakens
Outstanding Models in a Photoreal or Animated Project: Star Wars: The Force Awakens
Outstanding Compositing in a Photoreal Feature: The Revenant
