Burnie Burns: The Machinima Maverick
The Pioneer of Video Game Filmmaking
Burnie Burns is a household name in the world of machinima, a form of filmmaking that uses video game technology in its production. As the co-founder, former CEO, and former Chief Creative Officer of Rooster Teeth, Burns has been instrumental in pushing the boundaries of video game-based storytelling.
Early Days and Rise to Fame
Born on January 18, 1973, in Houston, Texas, Burns' fascination with video games and filmmaking began at a young age. In April 2003, he, along with friends and coworkers, created the machinima series
Red vs. Blue: The Blood Gulch Chronicles, filmed using the video game Halo. The show's humor and originality catapulted Burns to internet stardom, earning him the title of "Machinima Pioneer."
Broadening Horizons
Burns' success with
Red vs. Blue caught the attention of video game company Electronic Arts, who commissioned him to create a promotional series using their upcoming game,
The Sims 2. The result was
The Strangerhood, a series that further solidified Burns' position as a pioneer in the machinima field. He also premiered
P.A.N.I.C.S., a miniseries that utilized the
F.E.A.R. game engine.
Forays into Live-Action and Film
In 2016, Burns starred in the science fiction comedy film
Lazer Team, which he co-wrote. The film's success led to a sequel the following year. Burns' live-action work also includes
Immersion, a series that tests video game tropes in the real world, and
The Gauntlet, Rooster Teeth's reality game show.
Rewards and Recognition
Burns' innovative work in machinima has earned him numerous accolades, including two IAWTV award nominations for Best Host of a Web Series Pre-Recorded category. He was named one of the Top 25 Digital Stars by
The Hollywood Reporter in 2015 and, alongside longtime business partner Matt Hullum, one of
Variety's top Digital Entertainment Execs to Watch in 2018.
Milestones and Key Life Events
- 1995: Burns moved to Austin, Texas, where he began his career in the entertainment industry.
- 2003: He co-founded Rooster Teeth Productions with Matt Hullum.
- 2016: Burns starred in the science fiction comedy film Lazer Team.
Lasting Impact and Legacy
Burnie Burns' contributions to the world of machinima have paved the way for a new generation of filmmakers and gamers. His innovative approach to storytelling has inspired countless creators, cementing his status as a digital entertainment pioneer. As the gaming and entertainment industries continue to evolve, Burns' legacy will undoubtedly be remembered as a defining moment in the history of machinima.
FAQ
What is Burnie Burns known for?
Burnie Burns is an American actor, director, and producer, best known for co-founding Rooster Teeth Productions, a media and entertainment company behind popular web series, podcasts, and films.
What is Rooster Teeth Productions?
Rooster Teeth Productions is a media and entertainment company founded by Burnie Burns and Matt Hullum, producing web series, podcasts, and films, including the popular shows Red vs. Blue, RWBY, and Achievement Hunter.
What is Burnie Burns role in Rooster Teeth?
Burnie Burns serves as the CEO of Rooster Teeth Productions, overseeing the companys creative direction, business strategy, and operations. He also co-hosts the popular podcast The Burnie Show and appears in various Rooster Teeth productions.
What are Burnie Burns other projects?
Burnie Burns has worked on several projects outside of Rooster Teeth, including the animated series X-Ray and Vav, the film The Strangerhood, and the comedy troupe Drunk Gamers.
What is Burnie Burns personal life like?
Burnie Burns is married to Ashley Jenkins, a fellow Rooster Teeth personality, and has two children. He is known for his humor, energy, and passion for gaming and entertainment.
