Few filmmakers in contemporary cinema dare to experiment with film formats as boldly as Brady Corbet. Known for his visually audacious works like The Brutalist, Corbet has established a reputation as a champion of large-format filmmaking. Recently, he revealed that his next project—a ‘70s-set horror-western exploring the Chinese immigration experience to California—will be shot on an ultra-rare 8-perf 65mm camera.
Speaking at the TIFF Lightbox, Corbet shared his excitement about the unique technical challenge:
“I’m doing my next film on an eight perf 65mm camera, and I’m definitely continuing to work with large formats. I loved working with VistaVision [on The Brutalist], but I want to try something new.”
For those unfamiliar with the nuances of film stock, 8-perf 65mm occupies a niche space between the grandiosity of IMAX’s 15-perf format and the more standard 5-perf 65mm. While IMAX dominates large-format spectacle, Corbet’s choice reflects his inclination toward crafting intimate, yet visually epic, narratives.
Corbet’s Cinematic Vision: A Commitment to Film
Corbet’s commitment to traditional film formats is nothing short of admirable in an industry increasingly dominated by digital filmmaking. The Brutalist, his previous work, was shot on 35mm 8-perf film and later blown up to 70mm for theatrical exhibition. This meticulous process highlights Corbet’s passion for texture, depth, and the immersive qualities only film can deliver.
Yet, shooting on 8-perf 65mm raises logistical questions. These cameras are exceedingly rare and cumbersome, with few precedents in Hollywood. One notable example was the use of 8-perf cameras for select sequences in Star Trek Into Darkness (2013). The decision underscores Corbet’s dedication to elevating visual storytelling, even at the cost of added complexity.
Thematic Resonance: Horror, Immigration, and the ‘70s
The upcoming film, inspired by Tobe Hooper’s Texas Chainsaw Massacre, promises to juxtapose the visceral terror of horror with the emotional weight of immigration narratives. Set against the backdrop of 1970s California, Corbet’s “looser style” aims to capture the era’s rugged, sun-drenched aesthetic while delving into the Chinese immigrant experience—a story rarely explored in Western cinema.
Corbet’s choice of genre and format aligns seamlessly with his thematic ambitions. Horror-westerns occupy a rarefied niche, combining the desolation of frontier landscapes with the psychological intensity of fear. By integrating the two, Corbet seeks to craft a cinematic experience that is both visually arresting and thematically profound.
A Personal Take: Why Corbet’s Experiment Matters
In an era where filmmakers are incentivized to adopt cost-effective digital workflows, Corbet’s insistence on shooting on film—and not just any film, but one of the rarest formats available—is an act of defiance. His work is a reminder of cinema’s roots as a tactile, visual art form, one that thrives on experimentation and risk.
The choice of 8-perf 65mm is more than a technical flourish; it’s a philosophical statement. By embracing a medium that demands precision and patience, Corbet challenges both himself and the audience to value the craftsmanship behind each frame. It’s a bold move, one that could redefine the visual language of modern filmmaking.
Conclusion: Anticipation Builds for Corbet’s Next Masterpiece
While details about production timelines remain scarce, Corbet’s horror-western already promises to be one of the most visually ambitious films in recent memory. His use of 8-perf 65mm not only reinvigorates a niche format but also signals his unwavering dedication to pushing cinematic boundaries.
As we await further updates, one can only speculate on how this rare combination of format, genre, and storytelling will manifest on screen. One thing is certain: Corbet’s next film will be an event for cinephiles and casual viewers alike.
Personal Impressions: Corbet’s decision to experiment with 8-perf 65mm is a testament to his vision as a filmmaker who prioritizes artistry over convenience. Having admired his previous works for their bold storytelling and technical prowess, I’m thrilled to see how he utilizes this format to amplify the emotional and visual impact of his narrative. His commitment to large-format film evokes the spirit of cinema’s golden age while carving a path for its future.
What are your thoughts on filmmakers reviving rare film formats like 8-perf 65mm? Do you believe these technical choices enhance storytelling, or are they a nostalgic indulgence? Share your thoughts below!
