Critically acclaimed cinematographer Haris Zambarloukos held a Masterclass on Sunday, November 15th, at the John Kassavetes Theatre. Haris Zambarloukos talked about the way he works with light, his collaboration with known filmmakers, as well as his relationship with modern technology. Film Journalist Yorgos Krassakopoulos was co-ordinating the masterclass.

‘Today we have with us Haris Zambarloukos, a great compatriot, a man who glorified the Aegean landscape in his work for the film Mamma Mia. Born in Cyprus, yet a citizen of the world, he is a man who can bring Greek light to Hollywood. His unique vision established him as one of the greatest cinematographers of our days’, noted TIFF director Despina Mouzaki in her introduction.

Haris Zambarloukos went to London to study painting but was eventually absorbed by cinema. ‘From the moment I first became interested in cinema, I lost my interest in painting. However, I am always more focused on the artistic, rather than the technical, aspect of my work’, he explained.

He also added: ‘I am inspired by the actors’ gestures and wit and this is what I try to accentuate in a film. I take great care in creating the right atmosphere during the shooting, so that the actors feel comfortable to express themselves’.

He pointed out that he is not a passionate follower of the digital technology. ‘Old movies carry some kind of magic. I therefore choose to work with traditional lenses and film, I think they create the best result’, he explained. Answering a question asked by TIFF President Georges Corraface regarding the digital restoration of film, he pointed out that he supports the restoration of old films by the means of new technologies.

Regarding to his collaboration with Phyllida Lloyd, director of ‘Mamma Mia’ he noted: ‘Phyllida, although a competent theater and opera director who had already worked for ‘Mamma Mia’ in the theater for nine years, had no previous experience in cinema. As a result, I had to explain to her some things about cinema and she had to offer me her knowledge of musical plays’.

Mr Zambarloukos also talked about his love for cinema that helps and encourages him to overcome the difficulties he encounters in his profession. ‘Prior to becoming a director of photography, I had practiced many other jobs within the film industry and I have always been very happy about