Yorgos Lanthimos Chooses VistaVision for Basement Set Film
Yorgos Lanthimos has made a significant choice in his latest film, “Bugonia,” which prominently features a unique setting. Much of the action unfolds in a basement, a confined space that enhances the film’s tension. The decision to film in this restricted setting was intentional. Lanthimos expressed that such microcosms amplify a viewer’s focus, allowing a closer examination of intense situations.
The Creative Choice of VistaVision
In an intriguing move, Lanthimos opted to film “Bugonia” using VistaVision, a large-format film technology. This choice contrasts sharply with the film’s smaller spatial confines. He believes that this large negative format adds a richer visual depth, helping depict complex themes and emotions.
Sound Design and Music
The film’s soundscape is equally ambitious. Lanthimos collaborated with sound editor Johnnie Burn and composer Jerskin Fendrix. The result is an impressive score that marks a notable shift in Lanthimos’s typically minimal approach to music. The soundtrack is designed to correspond with the film’s intense themes, functioning as a powerful narrative tool.
The Challenges of Shooting in a Basement
Working in a basement presented unique challenges, especially regarding sound. Lanthimos noted that the loudness of traditional VistaVision cameras was problematic in such a confined environment. To address this, the team sought out the quieter Wilcam 11 VistaVision camera, which, despite its difficulties, was crucial for capturing dialogue in the tight space.
The Effect of Format on Visual Storytelling
While the use of large-format cameras usually lends itself to grandeur, Lanthimos aimed to portray characters larger than life. The decision to use VistaVision allowed for an enhanced portrayal of character dynamics, critical for delivering the film’s emotional impact.
Collaboration and Technical Challenges
- Director: Yorgos Lanthimos
- Cinematographer: Robbie Ryan
- Main Cast: Emma Stone, Jesse Plemons
- Camera: Wilcam 11 VistaVision
- Sound Editor: Johnnie Burn
- Composer: Jerskin Fendrix
The filming experience was not without difficulties. The Wilcam 11 was often temperamental and presented issues during production. However, Lanthimos embraced these challenges, finding that they sparked creativity and led to unique solutions.
For film enthusiasts eager to delve deeper into Yorgos Lanthimos’s creative process for “Bugonia,” more insights are available through the Filmmaker Toolkit podcast, which features interviews and discussions on the filmmaking experience.
