Lukasz Zal is a talented cinematographer from Poland, known for his acclaimed films like THE ZONE OF INTEREST and COLD WAR. In this conversation, he shares how shooting IDA transformed his career and the humorous story behind the camera movement at its end. He reflects on the challenges of working in St. Petersburg while appreciating Russian cinematic traditions. Zal also discusses the practical difficulties and thematic depth of THE ZONE OF INTEREST, revealing how director Jonathan Glazer's vision shaped the film's tone.
Lukasz Zal discovered his passion for cinematography at 16, influenced by his childhood experiences with photography and nature.
His education in film school provided a collaborative environment that fostered essential technical skills and strong friendships among peers.
Zal's transition to professional cinematography was shaped by opportunities like 'Ida', highlighting the importance of adaptability and creative collaboration with directors.
Deep dives
The Journey to Cinematography
Lucas Thal's passion for cinema began at the age of 16, originating from a desire to express himself creatively. His exposure to photography through his father's cameras and a childhood spent in nature sparked his interest. Despite initial failures in theater and drawing, Lucas discovered cinematography as a way to combine movement and sound, drawing inspiration from European filmmakers. His education in film school emphasized practical experience, where he learned from mistakes and collaborated with peers in creating films, helping to solidify his path as a cinematographer.
Learning Through Collaboration
Film school provided Lucas with hands-on experience that was vital to his development. He engaged in filmmaking projects with classmates, often switching roles to learn various technical aspects of production. This collaborative environment fostered an exchange of ideas and support among friends, making the learning process enjoyable and impactful. Lucas emphasized that the quality of the friendships and the shared experiences were equally important as the technical skills acquired during this period.
Experiencing Challenges in the Industry
Transitioning from film school to professional work posed significant challenges for Lucas, who found it difficult to navigate the industry's networking demands. Despite having a family background in business, he struggled with small talk and self-promotion. However, with perseverance, he discovered opportunities, including assisting established cinematographers, which enriched his knowledge and experience. Through a serious car accident, he gained a deeper understanding of personal fulfillment, ultimately leading him to focus on documentary filmmaking instead of purely commercial projects.
The Breakthrough with 'Ida'
Lucas’s career took a turning point when he was invited to join the team for 'Ida' as a cinematographer after initially working as an assistant. When the original cinematographer fell ill, Lucas seized the opportunity, which proved transformative for his career. The strategic planning and improvisation during the shoot, including collaboration with the director in shaping scenes, propelled the film to international acclaim. This experience solidified his reputation in the industry and opened doors for more prominent projects, showcasing his unique approach to cinematography.
Finding the Right Approach to Cinematic Style
Lucas emphasized the importance of adapting his cinematographic style to the narrative and directorial vision of each film. In projects like 'Cold War' and 'Zone of Interest', he focused on capturing natural light and authenticity, moving away from heavy artificial lighting. His approach prioritizes immersive storytelling, often employing hand-held techniques and realistic setups to engage viewers deeply. This shift in his creative philosophy reflects his ongoing evolution as a cinematographer, aiming to find beauty in simplicity and truthfulness in his work.
SEASON 2 - EPISODE 102 - LUKASZ ZAL - CINEMATOGRAPHER
On this episode of the Team Deakins Podcast, we’re speaking with cinematographer Lukasz Zal (THE ZONE OF INTEREST, COLD WAR, IDA). Born and raised in Poland, Lukasz yearned to express himself creatively in his youth, but it wasn't until he filmed a communion that he found his creativity was best practiced through cinematography. We also learn how Lukasz took over the role of cinematographer on IDA and how he and director (and fellow Pole) Pawel Pawlikowski worked together. He later reveals the humorous reason the camera finally moves at the end of the film, and we discuss how shooting the film in colour and then converting the footage into black and white affected the final images. Later, Lukasz shares his experiences working on DOVLATOV in St. Petersburg, and we take a moment to appreciate the rich cinematic and artistic traditions of the Russian people. Towards the end, we also discuss the practical challenges of shooting THE ZONE OF INTEREST and how director Jonathan Glazer’s idea of “Big Brother in Nazi Germany” informed the ultimate tone of the film.
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This episode is sponsored by Aputure
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