Written by Cole Mihalich. Photo by Cole Mihalich.
Audiences flocked to Lucas Theater this past Sunday for “Oppenheimer” and a Q&A with cinematographer Hoyte van Hoytema who was presented with the Variety Creative Impact in Cinematography Award.
Christopher Nolan’s “Oppenheimer” is one of this year’s greatest successes. Arriving in theaters opposite Barbie in July of this year, the film has since grossed over $900 million worldwide. This makes it the highest-grossing “biopic” of all time and the second-highest-grossing R-rated movie in history.
“Oppenheimer” is widely considered one of the best films of the year thus far, garnering endless praise from critics and fans alike. The film is a staggering portrayal of some of the most pivotal moments in the deeply brilliant and contradictory life of J. Robert Oppenheimer (Cillian Murphy), father of the atom bomb, playing with enigmatic severity by Nolan. Murphy’s performance is brilliant, especially alongside one of the most extensively recognizable supporting and featured cast in recent history, including Robert Downey Jr., Florence Pugh, Emily Blunt, Gary Oldman, Rami Malek, Matt Damon and Kenneth Branaugh. With youthful, energetic yet deeply considerate direction and writing from Christopher Nolan, unparalleled editing by Jen Lame, an incredible score by Ludwig Göransson, and of course awe-inspiring cinematography by honoree Hoyte van Hoytema, this film is a must-watch.
The screening took place in the historic Lucas Theater but not without problems. The presentation, shown in 35mm film, was laden with technical issues, some of which hindered the viewing experience, especially for first-timers. Within the first three minutes, the film stopped altogether, slowing down with an almost comical stop while fading quickly to black. The issue made for a bad experience for first-time viewers coupled with unfortunate timing considering the screening’s present company. But, when the movie ran at its intended pace and quality, it was beautiful. Watching “Oppenheimer” in this gorgeous venue was unparalleled.
After the screening, honoree Hoytema was interviewed by Variety’s senior editor, Jazz Tangcay. “To reach and touch an audience with cinematography requires you speak the language of the heart and soul,” said Hoytema. He then went on to speak about his time in Holland and Sweden. As for his rise in popularity, Hoytema spoke about working with familiar and new directors. “It’s great to have a shorthand,” he said, referring to Christopher Nolan, a now four-time collaborator. Hoytema closed with a word for students, “Everyone has their own journey, so just be yourself and be ambitious. Stay straight on your own path.”
