A Film Review by James Berardinelli
Directors: Arnold Glassman, Todd McCarthy, and Stuart Samuels
Producer: Stuart Samuels
Written by Todd McCarthy
Released by Kino International
Often, one of the most overlooked elements of a film is its cinematography.Paradoxically, it is also the most important, whether specifically noticedor not. Movies are a visual medium where the pictures shoulder the lion'sshare of the burden. A movie can have a good director, accomplished actors,and a riveting script, but if the photography is poor, the production isdoomed.
Visions of Light will enthrall lovers of movies and photographybuffs alike. For those that happen to fall into both categories, it's arare treat. This documentary presents an insider's view of the cinematographer'srole, interviewing dozens of today's most accomplished directors of photography,examining their work, and looking back on the great productions of thepast. I defy anyone who sees this movie to emerge with an unchanged attitudetowards cinematography. It's likely that in the next film you see, you'llbe far more aware of camera's role in the creative process.
Visions of Light states that cinematography is the art of light-- blending it so it enhances the director's vision. Much time is spentdiscussing this subject as well as various other technical aspects of thecraft (the role of close-ups, the importance of showing a performer froma particular angle, and the advantages and disadvantages of certain shots).If all this sounds dry, be assured that it isn't. There are clips fromover a hundred movies to revel in -- everything from The Cabinet ofDoctor Caligari to Goodfellas.
The film is divided into three sections. The first, and shortest, tracesthe early days of Hollywood and the importance of camerawork in silentfilms. Several of the interview subjects lament the introduction of soundinto the movies so early, feeling that another decade of silence couldhave advanced their craft by leaps and bounds.
The second section deals with the black-and-white era after the introductionof sound. Covering roughly the years between 1930 and 1960, much attentionis paid to the role of contrast and shadow (gray versus black, for example)in these movies. Citizen Kane is given a lengthy treatment withits many photographic innovations discussed at some length.
Finally, color movies are presented. From Gone with the Windto films of the eighties, the various techniques used by color photographersto achieve moods and portray emotions are detailed. During this part, timeis spent on movies such as Annie Hall, Jaws, Blue Velvet, and theaforementioned Goodfellas (including a discourse on the genesisof one of that film's most unusual shots).
Visions of Light is somewhat didactic and doesn't attempt anyground breaking documentary techniques. But its mixture of informationand film clips maintains an effective pace. This film will add a dimensionto the knowledge of those familiar with the work of cinematographers, andgive an appreciation of a different facet of filmmaking to those who arenot.
© 1993, 1996 James Berardinelli