Mike Leigh honors Dick Pope, cinematographer, as a revelation and source of joy in the film industry.

I cannot help but use the cliché, but the friendship and collaboration I shared with the talented cinematographer Dick Pope felt like a match made in heaven, and his passing has left an indescribable void.

Before our paths crossed and we teamed up for the first time on Life Is Sweet in 1990, I was busy working on TV films and stage productions while Dick was capturing footage for World in Action and various documentaries in risky locations. He also worked on several feature films and music videos, including Kylie Minogue’s Wouldn’t Change a Thing and Queen’s I Want to Break Free.

Unlike some directors who switch cinematographers frequently, I found the continuity of working with Dick essential to our artistic exploration. After Life Is Sweet, Dick lensed all my projects, including shorts and commercials (a total of 19 works), as we delved into the realm of pushing the boundaries of cinematic realism.

Dick’s work was consistently captivating, whether it was his mastery in creating the monochromatic nighttime atmosphere in Naked or the vibrant primary colors in Happy-Go-Lucky. From his use of Super-16 film in Vera Drake to his innovative blend of 16mm and 35mm in Career Girls to distinguish between past and present, his visual storytelling was always compelling.

Our collaboration extended beyond planning and shooting film tests to the actual filming process itself. We eschewed storyboards in favor of creating and refining shots on location, always in sync with each other. We both shared a disdain for flashy camerawork that lacked purpose, believing that the camera should complement the action while the actors should engage with the camera.

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Actors found working with Dick to be a pleasure, as he respected and understood their craft, giving them the space and depth needed for their performances to shine. His gentle yet firm leadership style also earned him admiration from his crew, making the set a harmonious environment to work in.

Despite his illness preventing him from operating the camera on our recent project Hard Truths, Dick’s touch was still evident in the film’s visual storytelling. The positive reception at festivals is a testament to his talent and dedication, even in his final days.

The final stage of post-production, where the cinematographer’s vision comes to life, was where Dick excelled as an artist. His skill in color grading sessions was a joy to witness, resulting in stunning visuals.

I will miss Dick for his zest for life, impeccable taste, rebellious spirit, dry humor, and our shared love for gastronomy, especially Chinese cuisine and oysters.

Hard Truths will be released in the UK on January 31, 2025. A remastered version of Naked will air on Film4 on November 12.