A rare and exclusive interview with one of Australia's most decorated cinematographers, Jim Frazier (Life on Earth, Cane Toads - an Unnatural History), and winner of a Technical Oscar in 1997 for his invention of the Frazier Lens System, which has revolutionised the international film industry. It bedazzled Hollywood, where leading filmmakers, including Steven Spielberg and James Cameron, have queued to use it.
In October 1998 Jim was presented with the John Grierson International Gold Medal for pioneering work in micro/macro cinematography of invertebrate animals leading to the design of the Panavision/Frazier Lens System. Until the late 1980s Frazier was shooting wildlife films for David Attenborough, working on successful BBC wildlife series such as Life on Earth and The Living Planet. Frustrated with the limitations of the lenses available on the market, he set about making his own. The CSIRO physicists said it was impossible and the Export Market Development Grant board refused to back it, but Jim Frazier went ahead anyway and the rest is history.
Joining Jim on stage will be guest interviewer, Sean Glasson (General Manager, Kodak Entertainment Imaging) to talk about the history of the lens, the inspiration, and how it was finally made for mass consumption. We will be screening scene clips from various productions and there will also be a practical demonstration on the night with new applications for video being discussed. This program promises to not only be a fantastic opportunity to meet a living legend, but also an insight into the endless possibilities of the Frazier Lens.
Sponsored by KODAK AUSTRALIA. Presented in association with Australian Cinematographers' Society.
