Team Deakins CÉSAR CHARLONE - Cinematographer
Dec 31, 2025
César Charlone is a talented Uruguayan-born cinematographer and director known for his critically acclaimed work on films like City of God and The Constant Gardener. In this engaging conversation, he reveals how he transitioned from veterinary studies to filmmaking through a journey across Brazil. He shares insights on his collaboration with director Fernando Meirelles, emphasizing their deep understanding and the documentary-style approach in their work. Charlone also discusses the balance between political documentaries and commercial films, and how new technologies are shaping modern filmmaking.
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Hitchhike To A New Career
- César Charlone left veterinary studies and discovered cinema while hitchhiking in Brazil, which changed his career path.
- A photography hobby and a summer course at a film school convinced him to pursue filmmaking full time.
Partnership Born From Commercials
- Fernando Meirelles started as an architect and hired César for commercials, which launched a long creative partnership.
- Their collaboration began with Umatic commercials and evolved into feature film work over 14 years.
Prep By Repeating The Script
- Read the script repeatedly during pre-production to internalize the director's intentions and visual goals.
- Use thorough prep to anticipate choices so you can execute them fluidly on set.