Hot Redhead Media is delighted to launch our fifth episode of our new podcast HEAT: Spotlight on Women, By Women, In Hollywood. With this episode, we focus on talented Women Cinematographers.
Check out the curated watchlist below by this episode's featured cohosts, Jennifer Mondfrans, Heather Fowler, Cari Sudmeier, and Kiki Watkins. We also feature fantastic art by Jennifer Mondfrans in this blog post.
Listen to the full episode to learn more.
Heather Fowler's Pick:
Ellen Kuras - “Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind”
Ellen Kuras’s work in “Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind” truly showcases her mastery of cinematography. Her attention to detail, collaborative approach with directors, and willingness to experiment with different techniques contribute to the film’s visual richness and emotional depth. The use of natural light, diverse camera and lens choices, custom lighting setups, and playful exploration of cinematic techniques all make the film visually stunning and emotionally resonant. It’s a top contender for films with a lasting visual impact.
Kiki Watkins's Pick:
Natasha Braier - “The Neon Demon”
Natasha Braier’s cinematography in “The Neon Demon” is truly mesmerizing. Her ability to capture the film's sumptuous and delicious visuals while delving into the darker themes of obsession and consumption is remarkable. Braier’s use of light, color, and composition creates a visually stunning experience that lingers long after the film ends. Her collaboration with director Nicolas Winding Refn highlights her skill in working with filmmakers with strong visual personalities. The film’s polarizing nature speaks to Braier’s goal of creating work that provokes a visceral reaction and leaves a lasting impression on the audience. It’s a testament to her talent and dedication to her craft.
Jennifer Mondfrans's Pick:
Rachel Morrison - “Mudbound”
Rachel Morrison’s cinematography in “Mudbound” is indeed remarkable and groundbreaking. Her ability to capture the harsh realities of 1940s Mississippi racism while also portraying the characters' shared humanity is deeply moving. Morrison’s visual storytelling provides a window into the beauty and honesty of the characters’ experiences, even in the midst of muddy and difficult circumstances. Drawing inspiration from WPA photography greats like Dorothea Lange, Morrison’s cinematography captures the essence of the time period and the struggles faced by the characters with authenticity and poignancy. Her groundbreaking achievements in “Mudbound” paved the way for greater recognition of women in cinematography and left a lasting impact on the industry.
Cari Sudmeier's Pick:
Her award-winning short film - “Frequency Over Time.”
&
Mandy Walker - “Hidden Figures”
In her groundbreaking role as Director of Photography for “Hidden Figures,” Mandy Walker’s meticulous attention to detail and dedication to authenticity shine through, capturing the essence of the powerful story of three African-American mathematicians at NASA. Her innovative solutions to lighting challenges and strategic use of cinematography add depth and symbolism to the narrative, while her commitment to showcasing the strength of the film’s female protagonists resonates profoundly with audiences worldwide. “Hidden Figures” not only achieved commercial success but also received critical acclaim, earning multiple award nominations and solidifying Walker’s place as a trailblazing talent in cinematography.
Extra Blog Feature: Related Artwork on "Hidden Figures" film subject Katherine Johnson by co-host Jennifer Mondfrans. Visit the link below to read Jennifer's imagined letter from Katherine to the viewer (and see her whole mesmerizing series on women in STEM): http://www.jennifermondfrans.com/home/at-least-i-have-you/katherine-johnson
Hot Snack for the Viewing Session:
Are you hungry? This episode, we feature a movie-watching hot snack offered by Sasha Wulf! These are delicious!
Pizza Bombs
Ingredients
1 (16 ounces) can of refrigerated biscuits (such as Pillsbury™ Grands!)
½ cup pizza sauce, or as needed
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese or as needed
½ cup pepperoni, or as needed
¼ cup melted butter
2 ½ tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese, or to taste
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Directions
Step 1: Get the Bombs Ready to Fill
Divide the biscuit can into 8 biscuits. Flatten each biscuit into circles. You need to use your thumbs!
Step 2: Fill Them
Put a tablespoon of sauce, mozzarella, and pepperoni in the center.
Fold up biscuit edges and roll into a ball.
Step 3: Prepare with Butter, Bake, and Dip
Brush each ball with melted butter. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning.
Bake in the preheated oven until golden brown, about 15 minutes.
Dip in marinara or sauce of your choice.
Check out this episode and subscribe to HEAT on Spotify, iHeart Radio, Apple Podcasts, Deezer, and more by visiting our Audioboom HEAT Channel and connecting via your favorite listening venue so you don't miss out on our next curated snacks and featured episodes! Episodes are released on the first of the month.
See you next time!