Year: 2025

         Everyone in the film industry has an origin story, but cinematographer Archie Stout’s has to be the most unusual.          While directing a one-reeler on a Malibu location in 1914, legendary comedy producer\studio head Mack Sennett needed a shot of a pelican nipping at actress Louise Fazenda’s backside.  Concerns for the bird’s welfare led … Continue reading “ARCHIBALD STOUT, ASC (1886-1973)”

         Judging from the opening graphic that pegs the day as October 16, 1997, the producers of the CBS science fiction series Lost in Space were indeed ahead of their September 15, 1965 airdate.  Check out this introductory shot from S1\E1.  Through an unbroken take that clocks in at sixty-two seconds, it sets the mood … Continue reading “APPARENTLY, THEY PEAKED EARLY”

         The view from my pillow – every morning – at approximately 4:30AM… It’s a good thing I like to get up early!

          A year ago tomorrow, during an off-day on a shoot in London, I was privileged to get a private, one-on-one tour of the most significant recording studio in history.  Abbey Road – formerly known as EMI – was incredible!  Frighteningly modern, casually hip, completely adaptable and deservedly hallowed, it’s impossible to describe the thoughts … Continue reading “YEAH, YEAH, YEAH, THAT’S THE PLACE…!”

         I’ve been on something of an artsy non-fiction binge lately and the following thought occurred with regard to cinema verité.  The phrase refers to a style of documentary filmmaking that emerged in France during the 1960’s.  It emphasized realism by capturing everyday life with minimal interference by the creators.  Newly-developed lightweight equipment and faster … Continue reading “PRETENTIOUS? YOU BE THE JUDGE”

         In honor of the Labor Day holiday, His Royal Highness Jeff IV declared that it be celebrated with free-flowing Mai Tais for all.  Though it takes a lot of effort to produce a good one, who could argue with that? He may not be exerting himself too much, but he sure knows how to … Continue reading “WORKING HARD…OR HARDLY WORKING?”

         …the pursuit of something new, that is.          For cinematographers, staying fresh and relevant has become a nearly impossible challenge.  With the vast amount of filmed material now available at the touch of a button, we’re overwhelmed with so much sophisticated imagery that it’s hard to imagine a revolutionary look ever blowing up the … Continue reading “IT NEVER ENDS…”

         So, I changed my mind.  Big deal.  Or, is it, really?          I’m referring to a recent reassessment of two films that I wasn’t too crazy about upon first viewing.  To wit: Burn After Reading (2008; Ethan Coen & Joel Coen; Emmanuel Lubezki, ASC, AMC) and The Bikeriders (2023; Jeff Nichols\Adam Stone).  I saw … Continue reading “SHIFTING TIDES”

         Two nights ago, I unexpectedly found myself attending an outdoor screening at Paramount Ranch in Agoura Hills…and I’m so glad that I did!          The film – 1925’s silent western, The Clash of the Wolves – was directed by Noel M. Smith and photographed by Edwin B. DuPar, Allen Thompson and an uncredited Joseph … Continue reading “WHAT A GREAT EVENING!”

         Like the rock star he is, Jeff IV woke up late on what was supposed to be an off day and capriciously decided to cut a few sides.  I notified the band (no easy task) and hustled him down to the studio.  During a break I suggested this shot for the promotional poster; I’m … Continue reading “LOS ANGELES, CA, SATURDAY, JULY 5, 2025, 12:20PM”