Rapid improvements in computational simulation have driven advances in many industries that rely on modelling natural phenomena. In particular, visual effects engineers use AI algorithms to create stunning imagery for feature films like Star Wars, Harry Potter, and the Marvel Cinematic Universe. In this talk, Ronald Fedkiw will discuss his research to produce a new wave of simulation technology with more realistic facial animation to remove the 'uncanny valley,' more realistic and predictive cloth simulation, as well as the simulation of botanical trees.