Cinematographer Don McAlpine has a list of illustrious credits to his name, with a career spanning more than 50 films made over 40 years. His works include Australian classics such as Don’s Party and Breaker Morant, through to international blockbusters such as Predator, Patriot Games and X-Men Origins: Wolverine. Don also has an enviable trophy shelf, receiving numerous accolades throughout his career, including an Oscar and BAFTA nomination for Best Cinematography for Moulin Rouge!, a BAFTA nomination for William Shakespeare’s Romeo + Juliet, where he partnered with Baz Luhrmann, as well as three AFI Awards. Don’s most recent project was the highly successful Australian feature ‘The Dressmaker’ staring Kate Winslet, which sees him nominated for an AACTA award to be held in December.
Filmmaker Sasha Hadden recommended the Panasonic VariCam 35 to Don to shoot his latest project for Matchbox Pictures, Ali’s Wedding (scheduled to premiere in late 2016). After rigorously testing cameras from multiple companies, he chose the Panasonic VariCam 35 and his high regard for our flagship camera is evident.
“This camera represents a massive evolution in the process of digital cameras. The digital world was a wonderful breakthrough for me. I regard this as the camera that really takes it away from the film world entirely, film never ever got to 5000 ASA.” –Don McAlpine, on shooting Ali’s Wedding using the Panasonic VariCam 35
With shooting drawing to a close, Panasonic Australia’s Rob Myers and VariCam engineer Ryohei Yamato caught up with McAlpine on set for an update on his experiences with the two VariCam35 cameras he has been using.
Watch the interview
About the Panasonic VariCam 35
Featuring an innovative modular design, the VariCam has a 35mm 4K unit (AU-V35C1) which is separate to the recording module unit (AU-VREC1), allowing interchange with Panasonic’s High Speed 2/3” camera module unit (AU-V23HS1). The recorder and camera head can be split apart using an extension cable of up to 20 meters, making the VariCam suitable for use in helicopters, cranes and cars.
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