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James Bond cinematography

posted 2 years ago by Rusty (548)
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Can anyone familiar with the art of cinematography explain why the John Glenn directed Bond films feel so visually different?

The earlier films felt much more cinematic and almost like comic books. The sets were epic, the staging precise, the lighting was very bright, it felt like technicolour. Compare Moonraker to its follow-up FYEO.

Glenn’s films feel more gritty and ‘real’, with more location shooting, less of a ‘studio’ look. I like it but it can at times feel more TV than cinema, the worst culprit is Licence To Kill.

Conversely, my favourite Bond film is The Living Daylights and that film looks gorgeous. The whole sniper scene with all those shadows looks superb.

Can any photography nuts enlighten me?

[–] Tina (725) 6 months ago

I think the answer is quite simple once you think about the evolution of popular mainstream franchises like the 007 movies. New directors are hired to give the franchise a different look and style based upon whatever factors involved. A lot of it is to keep the franchise fresh to attract new fans and a younger generation of fans as well.