Team Deakins TURNING THE TABLES - 'TRUE GRIT' - with David Mullen
Jun 25, 2025
David Mullen, acclaimed cinematographer known for his work on The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel and States of Tara, dives deep into the artistry behind 'True Grit'. He discusses the challenges of filming a river scene using innovative techniques and the unique visual storytelling of westerns. Mullen shares insights on lighting, particularly when working with child actors, and reflects on the impact of aspect ratios in the genre. The conversation is filled with anecdotes and thoughts on creative flexibility, film stocks, and the memorable dialogue that brought the script to life.
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Opening Push-In Shot Story
- The iconic opening push-in shot on the boarding house in True Grit was complicated by location limits.
- They resolved it by shooting a push-in on a crane and extending it digitally, creating a highly effective sequence.
Train Reflection Visual Effects
- The train scene with Mattie was shot on a moving train but the window reflections were added in post.
- The background through the window was a plate shot separately to align with the actors’ performances.
Lighting Practical Flames
- Use practical flames augmented with bulbs for visibility on film.
- This technique balances authentic flame visuals with sufficient light for exposure in low-light scenes.
