Desert Island Discs Desert Island Discs

Sir Roger Deakins, cinematographer

Aug 23, 2026 · 50m

Summary

Cinematographer Sir Roger Deakins joins Lauren Laverne to discuss his life and career, reflecting on his childhood in Torquay and the profound impact of his mother’s early death. He shares insights into his artistic philosophy, his preference for operating the camera himself, and his long-standing collaboration with the Coen Brothers. Deakins selects eight musical tracks, including works by Leonard Cohen and King Crimson, alongside Herman Melville’s *Moby Dick* as his chosen book for the desert island.

Topics discussed

Introduction and guest overview On set nerves and operating the camera Childhood memories and Leonard Cohen Parents, mother's death, and coping Father's war service and family life Early cinema exposure and King Crimson Teenage isolation and political films Art college, photography, and film school Early career and working on 1984 Coen Brothers collaboration and O Brother The Master of Light and final music choices Desert Island choices: Book and Luxury Outro and credits
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