Don’t miss out on the magic of cinematography, the extraordinary art form that breathes life into a film, elevating it to an immersive work of beauty and emotional intensity. Through a complex construction of camera angles, lighting, framing and movement, each shot is a carefully crafted brushstroke designed to help convey mood and atmosphere, creating a sensory experience that lingers long after the credits roll.

Watch The Academy’s Nominee Spotlight celebrating the incredible range of talent demonstrated by this year’s Oscar-nominated cinematographers. From the trenches of World War I to the dazzling stage lights at the Rushmore Civic Center, each film takes moviegoers on a visually stunning journey.

In All Quiet on the Western Front, James Friend captures the harrowing reality of trench warfare in World War I, using striking camera angles and shadows to create a visceral experience. Darius Khondji’s work in Bardo plays with light and color to evoke the surreal, dreamlike atmosphere of the film. Mandy Walker’s cinematography in Elvis transports the audience back to the 1950s, capturing the energy and excitement of early rock-and-roll performances.

In Empire of Light, Roger Deakins creates a mesmerizing visual landscape, with every shot a breathtaking work of art. Finally, Florian Hoffmeister’s restrained cinematography in Tár employed patient and observational long takes to establish an atmosphere and tell the story, while also providing seriously striking images.

Experience the magic of each film through the lenses of these talented cinematographers. Watch The Academy’s Nominee Spotlight now to celebrate the incredible craft of the DPs responsible for the visuals of these five nominated films for Best Cinematography.