from October 11, 2004

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Backlot Imaging provided compositing services for New Line’s new release “Raise Your Voice” featuring Hillary Duff.

Production house Tri-Marq Communications, Inc. has joined forces with new Milwaukee post and effects outfit Backlot Imaging, Inc. to offer a combined range of services including state-of-the-art effects work for corporate clients and Hollywood features alike.

Former Disney VP/technical operations Steve Muckerheide founded Backlot last spring after he moved back to his native Milwaukee. He partnered with former Marquette University classmates Jim Culhane of Naperville and Chris Johnson of Milwaukee, who founded Tri-Marq in 1988.

“The strategic alliance allows both companies to exercise each others’ strengths,” said spokesperson Nicole Singer. So clients can now access Backlot’s 3D graphics and animation, rotoscoping, compositing and other post and effects services, while also taking advantage of Tri-Marq’s full set of production services.

Tri-Marq produces commercial, corporate video and original content for TV, garnering an Emmy for their children’s series “High Top Tower.” They also offer multimedia, web and business theater for meetings, conventions, trainings and tradeshows.

Backlot Imaging digitally added a water tower to this scene in New Line Cinema's new release “Raise Your Voice.”

“One thing that really sets Tri-Marq apart is their expertise in ultra wide-screen technology – a giant seamless panorama that offers unsurpassed image quality and resolution,” Singer said.

Tri-Marq corporate clients include Dow AgroSciences, Johnson Controls, Equity Residential and Aero Beds.

Backlot maintains offices in Chicago and Hollywood (overseen by Rick O’Hare, former Sony VP/ digital distribution). Their headquarters and technical facilities are in Milwaukee, where they completed six composite shots for “Raise Your Voice,” the new release from New Line Cinema featuring Hillary Duff. “In one shot we added a water tower in the background to help create the feel of a small town,” Singer said.

“Backlot is working on their second feature film, along with a visual effects shot for a commercial Jim and Chris directed last week,” she continued. “The reception has been great. We’re looking to infiltrate the Chicago market and create a buzz for Backlot.”

Tri-Marq and Backlot are at 25 S. Washington, Ste. 212, Naperville. Call 630/961-1575. Backlot's Milwaukee office is at 233 N. Water St., Ste. 303; 414/ 272-5248. See www.backlotimaging.com .

- by Ed M. Koziarski, edk@homesickblues.com

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