Welcome to Bonfire Conversations, a podcast where we gather around the metaphorical bonfire to share inspiring stories, explore creative journeys, and ignite deep, meaningful dialogues. Hosted by Hamidreza Nikoofar, each episode delves into the minds of remarkable individuals across various fields, including music, film, art, and beyond.
Join us as we chat with influential guests, uncovering the passions, challenges, and triumphs that shape their unique paths. Whether you’re a creator seeking inspiration or simply a curious mind eager to learn from the best, Bonfire Conversations is your invitation to sit back, relax, and enjoy the warmth of genuine human connection.
Available on YouTube and all the major podcast streaming services:
https://li.sten.to/bdrq39ec
Welcome to Bonfire Conversations, a podcast where we gather around the metaphorical bonfire to share inspiring stories, explore creative journeys, and ignite deep, meaningful dialogues. Hosted by Hamidreza Nikoofar, each episode delves into the minds of remarkable individuals across various fields, including music, film, art, and beyond.
Join us as we chat with influential guests, uncovering the passions, challenges, and triumphs that shape their unique paths. Whether you’re a creator seeking inspiration or simply a curious mind eager to learn from the best, Bonfire Conversations is your invitation to sit back, relax, and enjoy the warmth of genuine human connection.
Available on YouTube and all the major podcast streaming services:
https://li.sten.to/bdrq39ec
In this episode of Bonfire Conversations, host Hamidreza Nikoofar sits down with Jonathan Jacques-Belletête, the visionary artist and game director behind Hell is Us and the art director of Deus Ex: Human Revolution and Mankind Divided.Jonathan reflects on his journey from Montreal to the global stage, the creation of the iconic Cyber-Renaissance and Cyber-Noir aesthetics that redefined cyberpunk in gaming, and the deeply personal process of directing Hell is Us, an ambitious original IP from Rogue Factor that explores war, trauma, and self-discovery.We dive into:- His childhood, inspirations, and path into games- Reinventing the look of Deus Ex and shaping cyberpunk for a new generation- The challenges and philosophies behind Mankind Divided- Directing and writing Hell is Us- Designing its haunting creatures and unique world- Collaborating with composer Stéphane Primeau- Thoughts on games as both art and social commentary- And of course, a round of fun and deep “Penny for Your Thoughts” questionsIf you’re a fan of Deus Ex, curious about Hell is Us, or passionate about game art and storytelling, this conversation is not to be missed.✨ Don’t forget to subscribe for more inspiring conversations with the creators shaping the future of games, film, and art.Chapters:0:00 Intro 1:34 Childhood & Early Dreams 8:40 Discovering Art and First Inspirations 15:10 Entering the Games Industry 21:55 Shaping the Look of Deus Ex: Human Revolution 29:45 Creating the Cyber-Renaissance Aesthetic 37:20 Transitioning to Deus Ex: Mankind Divided (Cyber-Noir) 45:05 Lessons from the Deus Ex Years 52:30 Founding Vision at Rogue Factor 59:10 Directing & Writing Hell is Us 1:07:00 Inspirations Behind Hell is Us 1:14:25 Designing the Creatures & Visual Language 1:20:40 Working with Composer Stéphane Primeau 1:26:15 Penny for Your Thoughts (Fun + Deep Questions) 1:32:00 Closing Reflections & Farewell
