Technicolor adds further dimension to Mandela: A Long Walk to Freedom

Technicolor recently completed the grade on Academy Award nominee Mandela, A Long Walk to Freedom, directed by Justin Chadwick.  The creative direction of the grade itself was undertaken by sister company MPC’s Director of Colour Grading, Jean-Clement Soret using baselight technology. 

'” loved working with Jean Clement - a true artist who I started collaborating with from the very beginning of this project” , commented Justin. “His talent, delicacy of touch and deep technical understanding, coupled with his grace and good humour, make him always my first and perfect choice. His work is beautiful and understated drawing the very best out of the medium with a sensitivity that is rare. I look forward to returning to MPC/Technicolor. The whole experience was thoroughly enjoyable and the staff is passionate and enthusiastic. It makes such a difference.'

Director Justin Chadwick shot the project on 35 mm film, a decision that allows for an extra depth and sentiment to be perceived through the rich imagery. This fundamental decision in turn added extra dimension to this incredible story. Jean-Clement and Justin worked closely to ensure the atmosphere of the imagery Justin saw in his mind’s-eye translated clearly onto the negative and ultimately the cinema screen.  

Of the collaboration, Jean-Clement said:

“It was an honour to work again with Justin Chadwick, on Mandela: A Long Walk to Freedom. Having worked together previously on: The Other Boleyn Girl and Boy, we had been talking about Mandela well before it was shot. Shooting on 35mm brought, in this case, a visual style and richness that really complemented the story.” Creative collaboration at this level and on such an important project is rare, I enjoyed thoroughly working on Mandela.’