Streaming Series Lighting Illuminates New Cinematic Frontiers

The art of lighting is constantly evolving, especially within the realm of streaming series. New techniques and technologies are showcased in the latest issue, highlighting the creative choices behind some of today’s most visually stunning shows.

Severance Season 2: A Deep Dive

The second season of Severance has brought the creative collaboration of several artists. These include cinematographer/director/producer Jessica Lee Gagné, and cinematographers David Lanzenberg and Suzie Lavelle along with director/executive producer Ben Stiller. They worked together to capture the show’s surreal atmosphere.

“The filmmakers’ discussion reveals how the Apple TV Plus thriller series’ lighting techniques enhance the dual realities depicted in its story.”

—From the source material

Lighting Styles in Black Mirror and Beyond

The magazine also delves into the diverse visual styles of other shows. Cinematographers such as Jo Willems, Stephan Pehrsson, Philipp Haberlandt, and Álvaro Gutiérrez discuss their unique approaches to Netflix’s Black Mirror. The use of lighting to construct a science fiction aesthetic is a key element in the show.

Another episode of Doctor Who, “The Story & the Engine,” is highlighted. Cinematographer Ashley Barron brought new visual ideas to the BBC/Disney Plus series. The crew’s lighting ideas helped elevate the time-travel theme.

The episode of Adolescence has been examined, with Matthew Lewis, and gaffer Max Hodgkinson sharing their techniques. The focus was on balancing social realism and family dynamics, achieved through lighting and camera movement.

Superhero Stories and Virtual Production Techniques

For Daredevil: Born Again, cinematographers Hillary Fyfe Spera and Pedro Gómez Millán brought the grit of 1970s cinema to a modern superhero story. They worked to create a perilous showdown set in a penthouse using carefully planned lighting.

The entertainment industry is actively adopting virtual production methods. One report indicates that the global virtual production market is anticipated to reach $8.17 billion by 2028 (Fortune Business Insights).

Remembering a Legend

The publication also includes a tribute to the visual-effects expert Bruce Logan, known for his work on films like 2001: A Space Odyssey and Tron. The article also revisits Gordon Willis‘ work on The Godfather (1972), particularly the famous restaurant scene.

The latest issue offers an overview of the technical and creative innovations that shape modern visual storytelling.