Few filmmakers working today are as meticulous as Christopher Nolan (see also: David Fincher, Wes Anderson). The director, who has given us many of the best blockbusters in recent history, is known for having a precise vision, one that he will stop at nothing to translate to the screen. Which has been great for us, the moviegoers of the world, because more often than not, Nolan’s vision, for all its gusto and ambition, is one built wholly around adding texture and layers to the character and story.
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One such defining trait is his use of light and shadow. Nolan’s films are steeped in darkness. But never just for the sake of atmosphere — which is, of course, a perfectly acceptable reason. For Nolan, darkness is an expression of character, their battles with evil, and the general struggle of the world to do good. None of which makes Nolan a pioneer, rather just a thoughtful director with a firm understanding of the medium and a nuanced eye for storytelling.
To help highlight Nolan’s use of darkness, Room 237 (via One Perfect Shot) has put together a vivid new supercut. “Christopher Nolan’s Darkness” dives into the rich textures of the auteur’s films, emphasizing one of the many ways he interprets character and the inner demons people, both good and not, can be saddled with. The short video also serves as a great reminder that for all the spectacle in Nolan’s films, even the smallest moments are crafted with the utmost care.
Check out “Christopher Nolan’s Darkness” above and weigh in with your thoughts in the comments below.