Spotlight on: Marielle Reuser (Course Leader at MetStudios London)

Ever wondered what it’s like to study animation in London? At MetStudios London, you’ll find a creative community right in the heart of the city. We spoke with Marielle Reuser, Course Leader for the BA (Hons) Animation degree, about what you can expect from the course and how it prepares you for a career in the creative industries.

With more than a decade of experience at Rockstar Games, where she contributed to major projects like Grand Theft Auto V and Red Dead Redemption II, Marielle brings industry-leading insight directly into the classroom. She also shares how her experience, together with London’s vibrant creative scene, helps shape the learning environment.

For anyone new to our Animation course, how would you describe what it’s all about?

Our Animation course is all about helping people find their artistic voice. You’ll learn how to develop your creative practice and explore the world of animation beyond the familiar styles of Pixar and Disney. We welcome every medium and support you in creating work that feels true to you. Based at the historic Ealing Studios, the course gives you the tools, feedback and inspiration to grow as a creative. You’ll be part of a buzzing community at the heart of the industry, learning from tutors and visiting professionals who are currently employed as animators.

How does the course bridge the gap between creativity and technology?

We help students see technology as part of their creative toolkit. Our course has been developed in consultation with industry professionals, ensuring what you learn reflects current practice. You’ll be introduced to industry-standard software and workflows that storyboarders, animators, riggers, etc., use every day, so you’re building skills from the start. Whether you’re drawing, animating in 2D or exploring digital tools for 3D rendering, we make sure you feel confident experimenting and finding what works for you.

How do students collaborate and work together throughout their studies?

Collaboration is a big part of what we do. Because MetFilm and MetStudios share the same state-of-the-art building and facilities, there are plenty of opportunities to work with students from other courses. In the very first semester, BA Animation students team up with BA Screen Acting students for gesture drawing, reference videos and voice acting, and there’s also the possibility to collaborate with BIMM music students on sound and score. You’ll also work closely with other MetStudios students on shared projects, learning how to bring different strengths together. We also have some exciting collaborative projects with external partners coming up, giving students the chance to experience real industry-style briefs.

How does your own professional experience feed into your teaching?

Having worked in the games industry for over a decade, including at Rockstar Games, I bring real-world experience and a strong network of creative connections into my teaching. I understand how the industry works: the entry requirements, the workflows, the collaborative mindset and, most importantly, the creative problem-solving that drives it. Rather than showing students where to click or how to follow a step-by-step tutorial, I set creative challenges that mirror the kind of situations professionals face. Technology moves fast, and software changes all the time, so developing artists who can think critically and adapt is far more valuable than training button-clickers. I want students to leave feeling confident, curious and capable of finding their own creative solutions.

How does the course prepare students for careers in games, film, animation, or beyond?

We prepare students for careers by connecting them directly with the industry. Alongside collaborations with external partners, we invite guest speakers and run masterclasses led by professionals working in games, film and animation. Students build valuable contacts through Handshake, our careers platform, where they can book one-to-one appointments with creative professionals, find internships and discover job opportunities.

Want to discover where a degree in Animation could take you? Explore our BA (Hons) Animation degree or join us for an Open Day to learn more.

London is known for its creativity – how does that influence the atmosphere at MetStudios London?

Being based at a working film studio means creativity is in the air every day, and it’s contagious! Students see real productions happening around them, which makes the learning environment feel alive and connected to the industry.

How would you describe the creative community in London – and how does it connect to the wider games industry?

It’s diverse, fast-paced and full of collaboration. With nearby studios like Framestore, Blue Zoo, SEGA and Rocksteady, students are part of a vibrant creative network where new ideas and talent are always in motion.

If you could sum up the course in three words, what would they be?

Creativity meets industry!

For courses starting in September 2026, the UCAS deadline is Wednesday 14 January 2026. Don’t miss out! Make sure your BA 2026 application is submitted by the deadline, so it is guaranteed to be considered.