Why Oscar-Winning Cinematographer Autumn Durald Arkapaw shot Sinners in 65mm

In this wide-ranging conversation, cinematographer Autumn Durald Arkapaw ASC sits down with Panavision Senior Vice President of Optical Engineering Dan Sasaki to break down the visual language of Sinners — from early format experiments to shooting large-format IMAX film with lenses designed to have personality, texture, and what Autumn calls “steez.”

Together, they explore how lens character shapes performance, how format decisions evolve alongside story and VFX, and what it takes to push visual language forward while navigating studio-scale filmmaking. Along the way, Autumn reflects on collaboration, creative conviction, and the importance of building trust — with your tools, your crew, and your partners.

Find this on the Panavision website at
https://www.panavision.com/highlights/highlights-detail/autumn-durald-arkapaw-asc-on-filming-sinners-in-ultra-panavision-70-and-imax

Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction
00:30 – The Origin of “Grilled Cheese”
01:20 – Defining “Steez” in Lenses
01:59 – From 16mm Dreams to Large Format Reality
04:36 – Testing IMAX Cameras & Panavision C Series
05:43 – The Cinematographer as Artist & Manager
07:19 – Trust, Collaboration, and Creative Risk
08:59 – Autumn’s Proudest Shot in Sinners
09:53 – Lenses, VFX, and Preserving Steez in Post
14:42 – Navigating Studio Filmmaking
17:13 – Pushing Boundaries with Ryan Coogler
17:40 – “You Are Enough”: Advice for Emerging Filmmakers
18:49 – Developing a Personal Look
20:36 – Choosing the Right Film Format
24:27 – Lens Sweet Spots & Knowing Your Glass
25:32 – Closing Thoughts

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