SOLERA - Core Team

STEVE MIHAYLOV

Screenwriter | Filmmaker | CG Supervisor

Stories have always fascinated me. I see them everywhere—in my own life, in myths and fables—all following deep, fundamental patterns.

My journey began on the CG side of filmmaking, where I developed a strong visual storytelling foundation. But it was the structure behind great narratives that truly drew me in. I dove into the works of story structure masters like Joseph Campbell, Melanie Anne Phillips, Michael Hauge, and Blake Snyder.

Blending this narrative theory with hands-on visual experience has shaped my approach to storytelling—crafting stories that resonate not only emotionally, but visually as well.

ERIC CHRISTENSEN

CEO | FactoryVFX | Executive Producer

Eric Christensen brings over 30 years of experience in the film industry as a Visual Effects Set Supervisor and Producer.

As a senior digital artist at Industrial Light & Magic, Eric contributed to major productions including Star Wars: Episode II, The Chronicles of Narnia, and Mission: Impossible III.

He later founded RotoFactory and established Factory VFX, with studios in both New Orleans and California, collaborating directly with top-tier film studios.

Eric’s unique blend of artistic vision and production expertise bridges the gap between the technical and creative realms of filmmaking, making him a trusted partner in delivering world-class visual storytelling.

NIKKI CERNIGLIA

Senior VFX Supervisor

Nikki Cerniglia brings over 18 years of experience in Visual Effects, beginning her career as a digital artist before advancing into supervisory roles at Factory VFX.

A graduate of the Academy of Art University in San Francisco, Nikki specializes in compositing, digital paint, and VFX editorial.

Her strong technical skills and creative problem-solving approach help streamline digital filmmaking workflows, ensuring production remains efficient and on schedule.

Nikki’s passion for innovation continues to drive her to discover fresh, effective solutions in digital storytelling.

JUAN MELGOZA

VFX Supervisor

Born and raised in Napa Valley, Juan Melgoza blends a passion for visual arts with technical precision as an on-set Visual Effects Supervisor at Factory VFX.

A graduate of the Academy of Art University, Juan excels in both practical and digital effects for film, television, and virtual reality projects.

His innovative approach includes pre-testing VFX scenarios before production and training crew members in cutting-edge techniques.

Juan’s experience ensures high-quality visual results that stay on schedule and within budget—delivering creative solutions from prep to final reveal.

MICOLE KANZAWA

Virtual Production Lead

A valued member of Factory VFX’s senior team for over 18 years, Micole Kanzawa has built a strong reputation as a dependable and supportive leader.

Since graduating from the Academy of Art University, she has consistently demonstrated a sharp focus on efficiency and team mentorship.

Micole brings consistency, reliability, and a calm command to every project—contributing significantly to Factory’s longstanding reputation for excellence in visual production.

RUSS SUEYOSHI

Digital Effects Supervisor

A valued member of Factory VFX’s senior team for over 18 years, Micole Kanzawa has built a strong reputation as a dependable and supportive leader.

Since graduating from the Academy of Art University, she has consistently demonstrated a sharp focus on efficiency and team mentorship.

Micole brings consistency, reliability, and a calm command to every project—contributing significantly to Factory’s longstanding reputation for excellence in visual production.