Chad Eikhoff is a multifaceted creative professional who excels in various capacities as a director, writer, producer, and entrepreneur. With a passion for crafting imaginative stories and worlds, he utilizes cutting-edge technologies such as real-time 3D animation and immersive media to bring his visions to life.
As a storyteller committed to appealing to the entire family, Eikhoff is widely recognized for his work on "The Elf on the Shelf: An Elf's Story," a beloved holiday tradition that has become a staple in many family DVD collections and digital libraries. The special has also been annually broadcast on network television, showcasing Eikhoff's ability to create engaging and heartwarming content for audiences of all ages.
Building on his success with "The Elf on the Shelf," Eikhoff has pioneered the use of real-time animation techniques to develop new and innovative storytelling formats. In 2020, he created the pilot episode of "The Jolliest Elf," a 3D animated competition talent show set at the North Pole, featuring a cast of zany and awe-inspiring contestants and fun talent judges. The full series is slated for release during the 2021 holiday viewing season, further solidifying Eikhoff's position as a leading creator of family-friendly entertainment.
Prior to his work on "The Jolliest Elf," Eikhoff directed a groundbreaking virtual reality experience using Epic Games' Unreal Engine. "Zayden's Wish" was the first-ever virtual reality granted wish for the Make-A-Wish Foundation, and it took the form of an unforgettable immersive journey that transported a seven-year-old astronaut on a space expedition to Saturn. The project was recognized as 'Most Innovative' by the Foundation, a testament to Eikhoff's ability to push the boundaries of storytelling and technology.
As the founder and chief creative officer of TRICK 3D Studio, an immersive media studio based in Atlanta, Eikhoff is dedicated to developing and producing innovative projects that showcase the capabilities of 3D animation and virtual reality. He is also an active member of the Visual Effects Society (VES) and sits on the City of Atlanta's Mayor's Office of Film and Entertainment Creative Industries Board, further demonstrating his commitment to the creative industries and his passion for storytelling.
