#19 - Jeff Cronenweth: Shooting The Social Network, His Fight Club Meeting With Fincher, Taylor Swift, Creative Freedom, Film Bro Copycats and His Christmas Present to Aaron Sorkin

Red Carpet Rookies

In today’s episode we’re joined by one of the world’s greatest Cinematographer’s, Jeff Cronenweth. Born into the film business, he grafted his way through the rungs of the camera department and music video scene of the 1990s and after shooting videos for the likes of George Michael and Janet Jackson, got the call from David Fincher to take the reins of Fight Club. From there it's been a run of legendary movies including, One Hour Photo and Gone Girl as well as The Social Network and The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo both of which he picked up Oscar nominations.
In today's episode we discuss:
(01:25) Growing up with a famous DOP for a father.
(02:30) Did crew treat Jeff different due to his famous father?
(04:06) Jeff's thoughts on whether film school is worth it.
(09:23) Does Jeff think music videos are still a good way in for young DPs?
(13:00) Was Jeff nervous working on Fight Club with Fincher?
(15:03) Why David Fincher thought Fight Club would 'define the 90s'.
(16:54) How did Jeff find space for visuals in the dialogue heavy Social Network?
(19:18) How did the Director/DP relationship work with Aaron Sorkin on Being the Ricardos?
(22:06) How did it work on set between himself and Sorkin?
(26:07) Jeff's opinion on the 'Fincher aesthetic' that film fan boys have become obsessed by
(28:57) Is there anything that Jeff feels he's taught Fincher?
(29:35) What's a typical day of prep like for Fincher and Jeff?
(30:48) Did Jeff use reference much for Being The Ricardos?
(34:23) Quickfire Questionnaire

Jeff's 'book that everyone must read' - In The Blink of an Eye by Walter Murch.
You can also read our full book notes of In The Blink of an Eye here.
If you enjoyed this episode you'll enjoy this episode with fellow David Fincher collaborator Tim Miller.
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