One of my favorite films of all time is “Her” (2013). The color palette, the soundtrack, the Neo-Los Angeles backdrop, and of course Hoyte van Hoytema’s lighting and composition.

Another one of Hoyt’s greats, Interstellar (2014), probably my favorite “space” movie of all time (tied up with 2001). The high contrast and highlights and his use of light/shadows in space. The use of practical lighting.

Of course it’s hard to mention Interstellar without mentioning its predecessor, “2001: A Space Odyssey” (1968). Stanley Kubrick was so revolutionary in how he was able to capture science fiction in 1968, so well that some people actually believe he helped fake the moon landing. Geoffrey Unsworth and John Alcott created the meta for science fiction space visuals.

We can’t not mention the great Roger Deakins (who I seem to almost meet every week, I missed his book signing and his appearance at CineGear). Everything he has made is top tier. An all-around great movie I love of his is “No Country For Old Men” (2007). He’s a master of lighting faces and creating a perfect balance between style and reality.

The same year (and filmed just next door to No Country For Old Men) was “There Will Be Blood” (2007). On top of the incredible performances, writing, and directing, Robert Elswit won the Best Cinematography that year for a reason.