Roger Deakins least visually appealing film?
At no point did I think 'wow, this looks good', and in some places it looked rather mediocre, so I was surprised to see RD's name in the credits
LEAST appealing? Are you kidding? Why? Because it's devoid of CGI nonsense and sparkly "magic"? During the major scene/stage changes (all 11 of'em) I started to think of Edward Weston's haunting black and white landscape masterpieces of Point Lobos, California, still shots he took 78 years ago. They're quiet and composed, alternately providing a much-needed breather or driving an already disturbing idea home like a sledgehammer hitting a railroad tie. Most with nothing more than a sweeping birdseye view of the barren desert terrain that used to be a border, a divider of safety that has never been there. I can't remember the last movie that branded my brain with a cherry-red hot poker. See Arrival, released a week ago; he keeps getting better.
shareI'm happy to know that somebody remembers and admires Weston. My first light meter was a Weston Master II. As for the look of this film, it's completely appropriate. In the "Did You Know" section, Villeneuve says this is a "dark poem." Shakespeare wrote, "...suit the action to the word...." Or, in this case, the visual impact of the film suits the subject. How would this look if it were "appealing" (OP's word)? As we slowly drill down to the CIA's real motive, it is to empower the Medellín Cartel, with whom we could work. Chaos and anarchy reign in the land of wolves. The direction and cinematography reflect this reality.
shareJH, thanks for sharing your fascinating info. I did not know that. I was given a Weston print from an anonymous friend who read my reply for Christmas. THAT was a stunner.
My next, most anticipated project from this director/cinematographer team? Blade Runner, Baby! That sounds like it's got some great potential since the original set a high bar to work upon.
If you've never been to a Weston retrospective in a major museum, there's usually one at any point in the USA at any time. HIGHLY recommended.
Peace,
AONEMADMANSHOW IN NYC
I was, and am, a big Ansel Adams fan. His prints seem to be sources of light. Oddly, I never saw much Edward Weston. But I did see a lot of his son Brett. He influenced my own photographic style.
I didn't know V. was remaking Blade Runner. It takes nerve to try again with a masterpiece. He'll have to go some to improve on or substitute for Scott's bluesy, smoggy atmosphere. Should be interesting.