My name is Salik Waquas, and I’m a filmmaker and full-time film colorist running my own post-production color grading suite, Color Culture. My passion lies in visual storytelling, and I’ve always been fascinated by how cinematography can evoke deep emotions and convey complex narratives. One film that has profoundly impacted me is Todd Haynes’ Carol. Its cinematography is nothing short of a masterclass, and I wanted to share my analysis and thoughts on how its visual elements contribute to its storytelling.
About the Cinematographer
The visual brilliance of Carol can be attributed to the renowned cinematographer Edward Lachman. Lachman is celebrated for his ability to infuse films with rich textures and emotive imagery. His collaboration with Todd Haynes isn’t new; they previously worked together on Far from Heaven, another film that showcases their mutual appreciation for period pieces and intricate visual narratives. Lachman’s meticulous attention to detail and commitment to authenticity shine through in Carol, making it a cinematic experience that feels both intimate and expansive.
Inspiration for the Cinematography of Carol
Lachman’s inspiration for Carol heavily draws from the photography of Saul Leiter and Esther Bubley, pioneers known for their abstract compositions and use of reflections. Leiter’s work, in particular, is characterized by images shot through layers of glass, often capturing reflections and distortions that add depth and complexity. This influence is evident in how Lachman frames scenes in Carol. Characters are frequently observed through rain-specked windows or mirrored surfaces, creating a sense of voyeurism and emphasizing the barriers between them.
This stylistic choice does more than pay homage to mid-century photography; it mirrors the internal struggles of the characters and the societal constraints of the 1950s. By adopting this visual language, the film invites viewers to experience the characters’ emotions more intimately while also highlighting the external forces that impact their lives.
Camera Movements Used in Carol
The camera movements in Carol are deliberately restrained and subtle, reflecting the repressive nature of the era and the characters’ internalized emotions. Haynes and Lachman employ slow pans, steady tracking shots, and lingering close-ups that allow moments to breathe. This measured approach lets the audience fully absorb the nuances of the characters’ interactions and the unspoken tensions that permeate the film.
For instance, during pivotal moments between Carol and Therese, the camera often remains still or moves very gently, focusing on their expressions and the charged atmosphere between them. This restraint contrasts sharply with scenes where societal pressures intrude, where the camera might adopt a slightly more dynamic movement to underscore the tension.
Compositions in Carol
Composition is a powerful tool in Carol, used to emphasize themes of isolation, longing, and connection. Lachman frequently uses frames within frames—such as doorways, windows, and mirrors—to visually represent the barriers that the characters face. This technique not only adds a layer of depth to the scenes but also reinforces the sense of entrapment experienced by Carol and Therese.
One striking example is the recurrent use of window reflections. Scenes where Therese gazes at Carol through a window, with reflections overlaying her image, create a poignant visual metaphor for their elusive connection and the societal obstacles they must navigate. The careful placement of characters within the frame often leaves significant negative space, highlighting their isolation in a world that doesn’t accept their relationship.
Lighting Style of Carol
The lighting in Carol is soft, diffused, and meticulously crafted to enhance the film’s emotional tone and period setting. Lachman utilizes natural and practical light sources to create an authentic 1950s ambiance. Warm, golden hues dominate the indoor scenes, evoking a sense of intimacy and nostalgia. In contrast, the exterior shots often feature cooler tones and overcast skies, reflecting the characters’ uncertainty and the oppressive societal climate.
This interplay between warm and cool lighting serves to underscore the internal states of the characters. Intimate moments between Carol and Therese are bathed in warm light, creating a cocoon-like atmosphere that feels safe and detached from the outside world. Conversely, scenes depicting conflict or societal scrutiny are lit more harshly, with stark contrasts that heighten the sense of vulnerability.
Lensing and Blocking of Carol
Choosing to shoot on Super 16mm film was a deliberate decision that significantly impacts the film’s aesthetic. The grainy texture of Super 16mm adds a layer of authenticity and nostalgia, immersing the viewer in the 1950s setting. Lachman’s use of vintage lenses further softens the image, enhancing the dreamy, introspective quality of the film.
Blocking—the actors’ positioning and movement within a scene—is carefully orchestrated to reflect the evolving relationship between Carol and Therese. In the early stages of their relationship, physical distance and barriers are prevalent. As their connection deepens, the blocking brings them closer, often positioning them within the same frame in more intimate compositions. This subtle shift mirrors their emotional journey and the increasing risks they are willing to take to be together.
Color Grading of Carol
As a colorist, the color grading of Carol is a topic close to my heart. The film employs a muted color palette dominated by earthy browns, subdued greens, and soft reds. This choice not only anchors the film in its period but also serves to underscore the themes of repression and desire.
The browns and muted tones reflect the conformity and rigidity of 1950s society, a backdrop against which the vibrant emotions of the characters stand out. As the relationship between Carol and Therese develops, there is a subtle shift in the color grading. The introduction of richer hues and slightly more saturation parallels their emotional awakening and the intensity of their connection. This gradual evolution in color supports the narrative arc without drawing overt attention to itself.
Technical Aspects: Camera and Lenses Used
From a technical standpoint, Carol is a fascinating blend of traditional techniques and modern sensibilities. The film was shot using the Arriflex 416 Super 16mm camera, a choice that contributes significantly to its distinctive look. The Super 16mm format provides a grain structure and depth that digital cameras often can’t replicate, adding to the film’s tactile quality.
Lachman utilized a range of Zeiss Ultra 16 lenses, known for their clarity and minimal distortion. These lenses helped achieve the soft focus and gentle fall-off that give the film its vintage aesthetic. The technical choices in camera and lens selection were instrumental in creating a visual experience that feels both authentic to the period and emotionally resonant.
Conclusion
Carol is a film where every visual element is thoughtfully crafted to serve the story. Edward Lachman’s cinematography, inspired by mid-century photographers and executed with technical precision, creates an immersive world that feels both intimate and expansive. The restrained camera movements, meticulous compositions, and nuanced use of lighting and color all work in harmony to convey the complex emotions and societal pressures faced by the characters.
As a filmmaker and colorist, Carol continues to inspire me. It exemplifies how cinematography isn’t just about creating beautiful images but about enhancing narrative and deepening emotional impact. The film is a testament to the power of visual storytelling and a reminder of how technical choices—when aligned with artistic vision—can produce a cinematic experience that resonates on multiple levels.
Through its delicate balance of style and substance, Carol stands as a masterpiece of modern cinema. It’s a film that invites repeated viewings, each time offering new insights into its rich tapestry of visual and emotional nuances. For anyone passionate about the art of cinematography, Carol is a must-see and a benchmark for excellence.