Cinematographer Erik Messerschmidt on Chinatownn
Dec 18, 2023 ·
1h 7m 37s
“You may think you know what you’re dealing with, but you don’t. Believe me.”Talking About Chinatown with our guest, Cinematographer Erik MesserschmidtRoman Polanski's 1974 neo-noir Chinatown is regarded as one...
show more
“You may think you know what you’re dealing with, but you don’t. Believe me.”Talking About Chinatown with our guest, Cinematographer Erik MesserschmidtRoman Polanski's 1974 neo-noir Chinatown is regarded as one of the greatest films of all time. In this episode, we're joined by Academy Award-winning cinematographer Erik Messerschmidt to discuss this masterpiece of cinema.
We start by talking to Erik about his passion for filmmaking and what led him to a career in cinematography. He shares how he was drawn to the camaraderie and creative collaboration of working on set. Over time he realized the cinematographer role allowed him to blend his interests in art, science, and technology.
When it comes to Chinatown, Erik praises the elegant camerawork and seamless visual storytelling. Polanski uses the camera deliberately, guiding the audience through clues and reveals without excessive dialogue. The mystery unfolds through precise editing and minimalist framing. We also discuss the phenomenal performances and how Polanski pulls back at key moments to ground the major plot turns.
Chatting with Erik gave us a new appreciation for the nuance and artistry of Chinatown. It's a masterclass in subtle visual storytelling that inspired generations of filmmakers. Roman Polanski's direction and Robert Towne's script form a potent combination. We highly recommend revisiting this neo-noir gem.ff
Film Sundries
Find source material for The Next Reel’s family of podcasts – and thousands of other great reads – at AUDIBLE! Get your free audiobook and 30-day free trial today.Learn more about CODA and how it can work for you!We spend hours every week putting our shows together for you, our dear listener, and it would sure mean a lot to us if you considered becoming a member. When you do, you get early access to shows, ad-free episodes, and a TON of bonus content. To those who already support the show, thank you. To those who don’t yet: what are you waiting for?BECOME A MEMBER HERE: $5 monthly or $55 annually
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We start by talking to Erik about his passion for filmmaking and what led him to a career in cinematography. He shares how he was drawn to the camaraderie and creative collaboration of working on set. Over time he realized the cinematographer role allowed him to blend his interests in art, science, and technology.
When it comes to Chinatown, Erik praises the elegant camerawork and seamless visual storytelling. Polanski uses the camera deliberately, guiding the audience through clues and reveals without excessive dialogue. The mystery unfolds through precise editing and minimalist framing. We also discuss the phenomenal performances and how Polanski pulls back at key moments to ground the major plot turns.
Chatting with Erik gave us a new appreciation for the nuance and artistry of Chinatown. It's a masterclass in subtle visual storytelling that inspired generations of filmmakers. Roman Polanski's direction and Robert Towne's script form a potent combination. We highly recommend revisiting this neo-noir gem.ff
Film Sundries
- Erik on Instagram
- Watch this on Apple or Amazon, or find other places at JustWatch
- Script Options
- Theatrical trailer
- Letterboxd
Find source material for The Next Reel’s family of podcasts – and thousands of other great reads – at AUDIBLE! Get your free audiobook and 30-day free trial today.Learn more about CODA and how it can work for you!We spend hours every week putting our shows together for you, our dear listener, and it would sure mean a lot to us if you considered becoming a member. When you do, you get early access to shows, ad-free episodes, and a TON of bonus content. To those who already support the show, thank you. To those who don’t yet: what are you waiting for?BECOME A MEMBER HERE: $5 monthly or $55 annually
Join the conversation with movie lovers from around the world on The Next Reel’s DISCORD channel!
Here’s where you can find us around the internet:
What are some other ways you can support us and show your love? Glad you asked!
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