Blog Task #2
I have chosen Emmanuel Lubezki and Matthew Libatique as cinematographers that I believe have a similar style to what I wish to achieve through The Santification of Stardom. Below are clips of their work to reference to my research and opinion. Emmanuel Lubezki: https://vimeo.com/99452979 Matthew Libatique: https://vimeo.com/95602911
The reason I adore Lubezki is mainly because of his trademark stylistic tendencies. Firstly, his absolutely stunning command of natural night is to be noted. This is apparent in the past three Terrence Malick films he has worked on, through his improvisatory and often playful camera work. He creates something complex through beautiful natural lighting and produces really visually arresting images for contemporary film audiences. I believe that my piece can relate to this technique a lot, as I want visually eye popping images, but created through playful and often experimental camera work.
However, it is Lubezki’s work with visionary director Alfonso Cuaron that really showcases his ability to craft complex, yet extremely immersive long takes that guide the viewer through the unbeknownst of the cinematic world. Not only do I want to create a ‘one shot’ feeling throughout my short film, but implement the technical cheats and tricks which Lubezki utilises in some of his recent work. From his latest work on Birdman to the crazy car rigging of Children of Men, these can both be used as references. His ability to also shoot around special effects, yet create visually arresting images in their own right is purely incredible. Chivo has already accomplished some amazing cinematic feats in his 30 year career. However, the fact that he's only 50 years old hopefully means that we'll be witness to a hell of a lot more in years to come.
The reason I believe Matthew Libatique is such a brilliant cinematographer is because he creates a visual language through atmosphere. He’s shot big-budget, glossy comic book films like Iron Man 2 and then gone to low budget thrillers such as Black Swan - but still keeps a very distinct visual style of producing darkness yet in strangely open spaces. I would love to reference his work on Black Swan for my short film. With it’s dark, moody lighting and imagery underscoring the inner psychological disintegration of an obsessive ballerina, his shots create a claustrophobic feel by virtue of exposure and also the texture of the film. Although we’re obviously not shooting on film, I believe that using mirrors, reflections and a black and white monochromatical colour palette could really assist in setting a clear tone for my piece. His way of lighting 360 degrees whilst moving the camera all around sets and atmospheres is inspiring and furthers the story, by opening up spaces and textures for the audience to witness.
In terms of their technical approach to filming, Lubzeki is extremely digital in his approach, but as I’ve previously mentioned - uses a large degree of natural lighting. Whilst on the other hand, Libatique figures out ways of lighting in the round as to shoot with a Fuji Vivid series 500 ASA, which mitigates grain to add an ‘old time’ feel to his work.