Renowned cinematographer Roger Deakins believes the film industry has undergone significant changes, resulting in the loss of quality in modern movies. In an interview with The Guardian, he expresses nostalgia for character-driven films like “Hud,” which focus on human emotions rather than spectacle.
Deakins criticizes the industry’s shift towards franchise films, superhero epics, and big action spectacles, often relying on green screens, CGI, and digital post-production. He attributes this change to advancements in camera technology, making it easier to “fix” images during post-production.
In contrast, Deakins values meticulous attention to detail and intentional storytelling, citing his collaboration with directors like the Coen brothers and Denis Villeneuve as key to his approach. He laments the decline of cinematography as a craft, where attention is paid to how the frame can tell a story, rather than relying on digital fixes.
Deakins’ comments highlight the changing landscape of filmmaking, where deliberate storytelling seems to be losing ground to fast-paced, digitally enhanced productions. His words echo his nostalgic for the Hollywood of old, which valued thoughtful visual storytelling and character-driven narratives.
Source: https://www.worldofreel.com/blog/2026/2/9/deakins