Jonathan Nolan To Receive Visual Effects Society’s VES Visionary Award

The Visual Effects Society has selected writer-producer-director and Westworld co-creator Jonathan Nolan with its VES Visionary Award, to be bestowed at the 17th annual VES Awards on February 5 at the Beverly Hilton.

Nolan joins his brother and oft-collaborator Christopher Nolan, who was honored with the same award in 211. The Nolans teamed on 2000’s Memento, 2006’s The Prestige, two Dark Knight films and 2014’s Interstellar.

The VES Visionary Award recognizes “an individual who has uniquely and consistently employed the art and science of visual effects to foster imagination and ignite future discoveries by way of artistry, invention and groundbreaking work,” according to the group. Victoria Alonso, Syd Mead, J.J. Abrams, Alfonso Cuarón and Ang Lee are also previous recipients.

“Jonathan Nolan has been at the forefront in utilizing visual effects to tell remarkable, highly nuanced stories that change the way we think about what is possible to achieve,” said Mike Chambers, VES board chair, in a press release Wednesday. “Jonathan has an innate sense of how to use visual effects intelligently to bring his creative visions to life. As a major force in film and television, he has written, produced, directed and contributed to some of the most compelling and unforgettable narratives in filmed entertainment. We are proud to honor Jonathan, a true innovator, with the VES Visionary Award.”

Jonathan Nolan’s credits include creating CBS’ Person of Interest as well as HBO’s Westworld, which he created with wife Lisa Joy via their Kilter Films. He landed Emmy writing and directing noms for its Season 1.

The VES Awards nominations will be announced January 15.