Bradford Young, the acclaimed cinematographer behind visually arresting films like “Arrival” and “Selma,” is making a long-awaited return to the big screen. After a six-year hiatus, Young is set to bring his unique visual style to Asif Kapadia's upcoming film, “2073.” This dystopian sci-fi documentary/thriller, inspired by Chris Marker's “La Jetée,” will premiere at the prestigious Venice Film Festival, promising a fresh and thought-provoking cinematic experience.
Young's journey back to feature filmmaking has been as enigmatic as his visual storytelling. Following a promising start with critically acclaimed films, his career took an unexpected turn after working on “Solo: A Star Wars Story” in 2018. The project was marred by behind-the-scenes turmoil, including the departure of original directors Phil Lord and Chris Miller, which might have contributed to Young's decision to step away from the industry. In a candid conversation on the Team Deakins podcast, Young even hinted at potentially leaving the world of cinematography for good.
During his hiatus, Young remained creatively active. He co-founded “Tribe7,” a cinema lens company that's gained recognition in the industry, and ventured into the advertising world and short film directing. Yet, the allure of storytelling through the lens never truly left him. His involvement in “2073” not only marks a comeback but also reaffirms his status as one of the most talented cinematographers of his generation.
“2073” promises to be a visual feast, with Kapadia's direction and Young's distinct style combining to create a captivating narrative. As audiences eagerly await the film's release, expected later this year, the collaboration between Kapadia and Young is a reminder of the power of cinema to tell profound stories. With the film's Venice premiere, fans and critics alike will undoubtedly be watching to see how Young's latest work unfolds, potentially heralding a new era in his already impressive career.
