Introducing the SUMOLIGHT Creative Synergy Award at the ICFF Manaki Brothers Film Festival
We are thrilled to announce the introduction of a new and prestigious honor at this year’s Manaki Brothers Film Festival: The Creative Synergy Award, sponsored by SUMOLIGHT, GmbH. This award has been conceived by the festival in partnership with SUMOLIGHT to celebrate the often-unsung collaboration between a Director of Photography (DoP) and their gaffer, recognizing the impact that this partnership has on the visual storytelling of a film.
The SUMOLIGHT Creative Synergy Award is dedicated to those duos whose combined creativity and technical expertise bring a director’s vision to life, creating not just beautiful images but a cohesive visual narrative that resonates with audiences. This award acknowledges the indispensable relationship between the DoP and the gaffer—a dynamic and collaborative bond that is at the heart of every visually stunning film.
For our inaugural SUMOLIGHT Creative Synergy Award, we are honored to recognize the exceptional collaboration between Alice Brooks, ASC, and her chief lighting technician (gaffer), Dave Smith, for their extraordinary work on the production of “Wicked”. Together, Brooks and Smith have crafted a visual experience that is both enchanting and groundbreaking, demonstrating an unparalleled synergy that has elevated the film’s storytelling to new heights.
Alice Brooks, ASC, has been a trailblazer in the industry, known for her innovative approach to cinematography, which combines a deep understanding of light, color, and composition with a keen sensitivity to the emotional undertones of the narrative. In “Wicked”, her vision was realized with impeccable precision and creativity, bringing a vibrant and magical world to life on screen.
Dave Smith, a seasoned gaffer, played an integral role in translating Brooks’ vision into reality. His expertise in lighting, attention to detail, and ability to adapt to the demands of each scene were crucial in creating the film’s unique atmosphere. The seamless collaboration between Brooks and Smith is a testament to the importance of the DoP-gaffer relationship in filmmaking. Their joint efforts exemplify how a shared vision, combined with technical prowess, can produce a cinematic experience that transcends the ordinary.
As we celebrate this remarkable achievement, we also acknowledge the vital role that such collaborations play in the art of filmmaking. SUMOLIGHT Creative Synergy Award will continue to honor those duos who push the boundaries of visual storytelling through their combined talents, and we look forward to witnessing many more inspiring partnerships in the years to come.
Congratulations to Alice Brooks, ASC, and Dave Smith on this well-deserved recognition. Their work on “Wicked” will undoubtedly serve as a shining example of the power of collaboration in film production.