
Cinematographers engage in a discussion about the artistry and technique of cinematography and the role of the director of photography (DP), using scenes from 100 films, ranging from “Birth of a Nation” to “Do the Right Thing,” to illustrate their insights. Key topics include how DPs guide the audience’s focus, how they adapted creatively to technological advancements like sound, color, and widescreen formats, and their ongoing innovation with new equipment and techniques, yielding impressive outcomes. The narration explores distinct studio styles from the 1930s, the rise of film noir, the unique New York aesthetic, and the influence of European filmmakers. Special emphasis is given to “Citizen Kane,” “The Conformist,” and the work of Gordon Willis.