Alexa makes local film debut
Kieran Darcy-Smith’s film Say Nothing will be the first Australian film to be shot on ARRI’s new Alexa camera.
“The ARRI Alexa is without doubt the finest digital motion picture camera I have used. After comparative tests against other digital formats the Alexa was the clear winner when it came to picture quality and functionality. There is no doubt it’s a game changer,” said cinematographer Jules O’Loughlin.
Producer Angie Fielder said the camera package and service would be supplied by Video Australasia – including a full set of Zeiss Master Prime lenses and two ARRI/Fujinon Alura zoom lenses.
“We have been testing the system comprehensively, with excellent results. Our post house Cutting Edge has been working very hard to develop the best and most suitable pipeline from rushes processing through to 35mm film out,” said Fielder.
“I’ve always essentially been a film DOP and always a believer in the longevity of film, the quality of film and that it is technically superior to HD in dynamic range. Now, having fully tested the ALEXA I can honestly say the images it produces are comparable to 35mm,” added O’Loughlin. “ARRI have absolutely nailed it from a cinematographer and operator’s point of view. I must also say that [Video Australasia MD] Warren Day is a real champion who has bent over backwards to help get this film made.”
Say Nothing will start shooting in Sydney this week, followed by work in Cambodia in January 2011.
