This summer has witnessed a significant resurgence in the cinema industry. After a period of stagnation, movie enthusiasts have returned in large numbers, seeking out the high-production, ambitious blockbusters that are currently on offer. In this special feature, we take a unique perspective on the global cinema industry through the lenses of nine talented photographers. From Brigitte Lacombe’s captivating film set photographs to Gelareh Kiazand’s exploration of Iranian women, and Park Chan-wook’s striking images of everyday objects, this celebration showcases the art, craftsmanship, and larger-than-life personalities behind the magic of moviemaking.
Celebrity: Brigitte Lacombe – FRANCE and the US
Since 1975, French photographer Brigitte Lacombe has been capturing moments on film sets. Her journey began when she was just 25 years old, working for Elle magazine in Cannes and photographing Dustin Hoffman. Little did she know, this encounter would lead her to All the President’s Men. Over the past five decades, Lacombe has had the privilege of photographing behind-the-scenes moments with legendary directors such as Martin Scorsese, Federico Fellini, Steven Spielberg, Sofia Coppola, and many more. As Lacombe shares, the secret to her success is to be invisible, curious, and patient. Above all, her love for cinema and actors shines through in her work. While her regular studio work involves photographing Dior campaigns or capturing images of artists, politicians, and intellectuals, on a film set, she is a guest who must adapt and observe without interfering. Through her photographs, she offers us a rare glimpse into the concealed world of filmmaking.
Nadia Lee Cohen – US and UK
Nadia Lee Cohen, a photographer, filmmaker, and self-portrait artist, draws inspiration from Americana and British cinema, particularly from the 1960s and ’70s. Her photographs, often set against the sultry backdrop of Los Angeles, showcase stars like Sophia Loren and Lana Del Rey, blurring the boundaries between glamour and garishness. Cohen is best known for her series titled “Women,” a collection of 100 portraits that capture the essence of “unclothed” femininity. Her images exude strength and empowerment. In our interview with Cohen, we delve into her cinematic inspirations, her favorite movie (The Shining), her perspective on “star quality,” and the artists who inspire her. Living in LA, she appreciates the visual appeal of the city’s landscapes, but acknowledges that it also has its drawbacks. Cohen’s work invites us to explore the world of self-invention, recognizing that while bad self-invention leads to negative outcomes, good self-invention can be transformative.
Kalpesh Lathigra – UK
Over the past decade, photographer Kalpesh Lathigra has captured the essence of various individuals, from renowned stars like Carey Mulligan to refugees in Jordan’s Za’atari camp. Using his Polaroid Studio Express camera, typically employed for UK passport photos, Lathigra has developed a unique approach to his subjects through his series titled “A Democratic Portrait.” With the aim of equalizing his subjects, Lathigra uses basic flash lighting and proportions, allowing him to capture more candid moments. His request for “quietness and introspection” from his sitters creates a space of transcendence. While some subjects are seasoned professionals who assert control over their image, like Joan Collins, others offer glimpses into their vulnerability. Lathigra believes that the passport or identity card photograph is something that connects all of us, and his portraits reflect this shared experience.
Art: Christian Marclay – UK
Christian Marclay, a renowned artist, explores the world of cinema through his video installation titled “Doors.” Inspired by his previous work, “The Clock,” Marclay began conceptualizing this project while searching for unique “editing points” in films that would allow for seamless transitions. He discovered that door scenes provided an intriguing transitional moment, acting as thresholds between spaces and even films. In “Doors,” actors open doors, revealing new worlds and narratives. Marclay highlights the importance of editing techniques in cinematography, emphasizing how thousands of film fragments are meticulously pieced together to create the illusion of continuity and realistic flow. This video presented a significant challenge for Marclay, requiring precise matching of motion, door direction, and speed. His focus on editing consumed his attention, preventing him from fully experiencing the films he used as references. Doors, with their symbolism and ability to hide, reveal, and represent opposites, captivated Marclay and served as a fertile ground for his artistic exploration.
In conclusion, this comprehensive feature offers unique insights into the diverse aspects of the cinema industry, from behind-the-scenes moments to cinematic inspirations and artistic interpretations. These remarkable photographers and artists provide a fresh perspective, inviting us to appreciate the beauty, complexity, and magic of cinema from different angles.
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