The Academy Awards are the most prestigious honors in the film industry, celebrating outstanding achievements in cinema. Among the most visually compelling categories is Best Cinematography, which recognizes the artistic and technical excellence of cinematographers in bringing stunning visuals to life on the big screen.
For the Oscars 2025, the nominees for Best Cinematography include a diverse range of films, each offering unique and breathtaking visuals that captivate audiences. Here’s a closer look at the talented cinematographers and their nominated films:
1. The Brutalist – Lol Crawley
Lol Crawley, known for his evocative and immersive cinematography, has been nominated for his work on The Brutalist. This film, with its stark visuals and masterful use of light and shadow, showcases Crawley’s ability to create an intense and emotionally charged atmosphere. His work in this film exemplifies the balance between architecture and human emotion, making it a strong contender for the award.
2. Dune: Part Two – Greig Fraser
Following his Oscar-winning work on Dune (2021), Greig Fraser returns with Dune: Part Two, continuing to bring the vast, otherworldly landscapes of Arrakis to life. Fraser’s use of sweeping desert vistas, intricate lighting, and dynamic camera movements makes this sci-fi epic a visual masterpiece. His ability to craft immersive and grandiose imagery solidifies him as a top contender in this category.
3. Emilia Pérez – Paul Guilhaume
Paul Guilhaume’s nomination for Emilia Pérez highlights his exceptional talent in capturing intimate yet striking visuals. The film, which blends vibrant color palettes with atmospheric cinematography, showcases Guilhaume’s skill in storytelling through visuals. His unique approach to composition and lighting plays a crucial role in enhancing the film’s narrative depth.
4. Maria – Ed Lachman
Veteran cinematographer Ed Lachman earns yet another Oscar nomination for Maria, a film that demonstrates his mastery in visual storytelling. Known for his previous work on Carol and Far from Heaven, Lachman’s cinematography in Maria blends rich textures with beautifully framed shots. His ability to evoke deep emotions through his lens makes him a strong competitor for the award.
5. Nosferatu – Jarin Blaschke
Jarin Blaschke, famous for his work on The Lighthouse and The Witch, brings his signature eerie and gothic aesthetic to Nosferatu. His use of shadow, contrast, and period-accurate cinematographic techniques contributes to the hauntingly beautiful visuals of this horror remake. Blaschke’s expertise in crafting unsettling and immersive imagery makes Nosferatu a standout nominee.
Who Will Take Home the Oscar?
Each nominee brings something special to the table, making this year’s Best Cinematography race one of the most competitive. Whether it’s the sweeping landscapes of Dune: Part Two, the eerie ambiance of Nosferatu, or the emotional depth in Maria, every cinematographer on this list has delivered outstanding work.
