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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