On January 9, the American Cinematheque will host its fourth annual Tribute to the Crafts at the iconic Egyptian Theatre in Hollywood. This significant event recognizes individuals who play pivotal roles behind the camera, honoring their contributions to the film industry over the past year. Spanning across various categories, the evening aims to celebrate the artisans whose creativity, dedication, and craftsmanship elevate films to the illustrious status they often achieve.
This year’s tribute features noteworthy films such as “Wicked,” “Dune: Part Two,” and “Emilia Pérez,” all selected for their remarkable contributions in multiple categories. “Wicked,” a anticipated adaptation of the beloved musical, will receive accolades for Costume Design and a trifecta of categories including Production Design, Set Decoration, and Prop Master. Meanwhile, “Dune: Part Two,” a visually striking epic, will be honored for its groundbreaking work in Sound and Visual Effects, highlighting the film’s sensory achievements. The film “Emilia Pérez” will be recognized for its impressive Choreography and Editing, demonstrating the creative fusion that makes it a compelling narrative.
Other films nominated this year cover a spectrum of craft categories, with “Saturday Night” being acknowledged for its Casting and “Nickel Boys” for its Cinematography. The artistry of Hair and Makeup in “The Substance” also garners recognition, along with a Music Score nomination for “Challengers.” Additionally, the Song category celebrates the collaboration in “Will & Harper’s” “Harper & Will Go West,” and the exhilarating Stunts in “The Fall Guy.”
One of the night’s highlights will be the presentation of the Career Achievement Award to Ed Lachman, an Oscar-nominated cinematographer with a career that spans over five decades and more than 80 film credits. Known for his work on influential films like “The Virgin Suicides” and “Carol,” Lachman’s artistry and innovative approach to cinematography make him a paragon in the film industry. This year, his work on Pablo Larraín’s “Maria,” which features Angelina Jolie as legendary opera singer Maria Callas, will further highlight his enduring impact and skill in crafting compelling visual narratives.
The nominees were chosen by an impressive jury composed of journalists, film historians, and cinephiles, reflecting the depth of knowledge and appreciation for the craft. The event is exclusive, inviting a curated audience from esteemed organizations including the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS), the British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA), and various industry guilds. This aggregation of film enthusiasts and professionals bestows a significant atmosphere upon the celebration, fostering connections and discussions amongst some of the industry’s leading figures.
Co-hosting the event will be veteran film producers and respected American Cinematheque board members, Stephanie Allain and Paula Wagner. Their extensive experience includes a variety of acclaimed projects, providing them with insight into the diverse facets of filmmaking. As articulated by Grant Moninger, the artistic director of the American Cinematheque, film is fundamentally a collective art form, and this event aims to recognize and celebrate the vital contributions of the artisans and craftspeople who bring stories to life on the big screen.
The Tribute to the Crafts serves not only to commend individual achievements but to emphasize the collaborative nature of filmmaking. Each film nominated represents a culmination of countless hours of dedication, creativity, and teamwork. It is a reminder of the diverse talents required for filmmaking ranging from costume design to sound engineering. As we celebrate the honorees, we also honor the spirit of collaboration that permeates the industry, fostering a thriving environment that allows art to flourish.
Through this celebration, the American Cinematheque continues to champion the importance of craftsmanship in cinema, shining a spotlight on the unsung heroes behind the scenes whose contributions are essential to the vibrant tapestry of film.
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