I have to admit that on a technical level (and overall) the Season Finale of House was STUNNING. I had to pinch myself a few times and I have to admit that the question: “Was this REALLY shot w/ the Canon 5D MKII” did run through my mind more than once. The full episode will be available on Fox’s site in 7 days for those who missed it, or of course on iTunes.
Three things stood out:
1. The lens sharpness was phenomenal. Why? The lighting. Sure we all caught some glimpses of people/faces falling out of focus at times – something all 5D MKII and HDDSLR operators are well acquainted with… I’m sure this could be remedied with many of the newer 3rd party lens options out there today. I am told this episode was shot with Canon EF Lenses – including the 24~70mm 2.8 and 70~200mm 2.8 – lenses that are particularly difficult to set focus marks with, as they were never really intended to be used as cinema lenses.
Tonight marks a big night in HDDSLR and Canon 5D MKII history. The Fox Networks “House” series is one of the most successful on TV today – and they are airing their SEASON FINALE tonight – shot exclusively with the Canon 5D MKII!
I think this is perhaps one of the most important moments in the HDDSLR’s history to date – because it is in effect becoming a bonafide tool used in prime time television – for a major series.
DP Gale Tatersall and director Greg Yaitanes are in effect giving this camera a huge nod or approval. While many of us have been well aware of the Canon 5D MKII for close to 2 years now – understand that this is going to make a pretty big impact on a lot of people in Hollywood/film/television – who still have yet to “really” hear about this camera or still doubt that it is ready for major productions.
Yes – many of the DPs, Director and many producers out there have of course heard of this camera… but now you should expect a lot of Executive Producers, studios, actors and others to pay attention – when they realize it was used for a season finale on FOX.
From Gawker – some pretty good points in this article today. Brings up a lot of interesting questions and makes some solid points too. Read on and view the video as well:
Given that everyone’s talking about it and many shared the video – was this a SUCCESSFUL marketing campaign?
Did the line between this video being a bit “too authentic” vs being “over the top / comical” get blurred – and was that the goal?
If you leave your customers feel cheated/duped – will that backfire?
All VERY relevant questions for anyone in advertising/marketing… what do you think???
On a technical note: you should notice that the guys fall into the water at EXACTLY the same spot each time…hmmm… and did you notice the RedRock Micro follow focus gearing on the 70~200mm… was this shot (at least in part if not entirely) with an HDDSLR perhaps? hmmm… likely!
