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Cate Blanchett, Rooney Mara faced ‘secrets … forbidden topics … taboos’ in the world of ‘Carol‘
A truly great column by Lorainne Ali provides meaningful insight and analysis into the upcoming film Carol.
The one thing not discussed is director Todd Haynes insistence on using 16mm film. It provides a soft, creamy look with enough grain to remind us that we are looking back in time. Haynes told the audience at the Chicago International Film Festival that the reason he went as low as 16mm was because of all the people that insist on viewing films on small screens. So much of the cinematic nuances are lost in those formats. Haynes said that the 16mm still retained some grain at the small screen size. I discuss in my upcoming book how many directors are infuriated when the topic is raised. Director Spike Lee calls the small screen viewing practice “criminal”. With more and more films moving to cable and teens watching on their tablets, is the industry going to have to make dramatic changes in the production process?
Your point about grainy images to convey the past rather than just flashbacks is really important. Add to that the use of filters and lighting that enhances the mood and you have serious technique beyond script, staging and acting. I think I get it. Thanks for pointing this out.