Barry Lyndon: A cinematography masterpiece
April 27, 2021
“Barry had his faults, but none could say of him that he was not a good and tender father. He loved his son with a blind impartiality, denying him nothing. It is impossible to convey what high hopes he had for the boy, and how he indulged in fond anticipation of young Bryan’s future success. But fate had determined that he should leave none of his race behind him… and that he should finish his life poor, lonely, and childless.”
The cinematography in Barry Lyndon has to be one of the best I’ve ever seen. The static framing, beautiful focal mass, circular, and rule of thirds compositions—combined with the beautiful lighting—result in stunning shots that look like Baroque style paintings.
A lens from NASA
Stanley Kubrick used a specific type of lens from NASA with an 0.7 Aperture, which lets in enough light to film in candle lit rooms. So it doesn’t come as a surprise that the lighting in this film is one of the best I’ve ever seen.
Not only the cinematography, but also the music and story are interesting. This film shows a very strong character arc of Barry Lyndon, which immerses you into his life trajectory. The classical music used in this film fits the overall tone very well. It’s recognizable and instantly reminds you of Barry Lyndon.
