In a recognition that underscores the profound talent flowing from educational foundations to the pinnacles of Hollywood, Brian Chumney, a Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) alumnus, has been nominated for an Academy Award. His technical prowess in sound editing for "The Wild Robot" has landed him alongside industry giants on the list of nominees for Best Sound at this year's 97th Oscars. MTSU News reports Chumney's nomination alongside Randy Thom, a name synonymous with auditory excellence in film.
Chumney's career has been shaped by a series of celebrated projects including "Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny" and "How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World." His current role as a supervising sound editor at the acclaimed Skywalker Ranch has allowed him to refine continually and execute his craft at the highest level. Chumney previously received nominations for his stellar work on "West Side Story," according to MTSU.
When the Oscar nominations were announced in late January, Chumney was asleep in a hotel in Burbank, California. It was a text from his father that informed him of his latest career milestone. "Like a kid on Christmas, I woke up early, picked up my phone, and saw a message from my dad telling me I 'might as well start planning on a return trip.' That’s how I knew I was nominated," he told MTSU News.
Chumney credits his formative years at MTSU for much of his success, highlighting the institution’s emphasis on teamwork and critical listening – skills that he actively employs in his current projects. His appreciation for crew-based collaboration is an ethos that resonates through his words. "To this day, I’ll pull a colleague into my edit room to listen to something when I feel like I’m done and ready to move on," he shared with MTSU News. The Oscars, hosted by Conan O'Brien this year, will be aired live on ABC and Hulu on Sunday at 6 p.m. Central.
