The acclaimed British cinematographer Dick Pope, renowned for his collaborations with filmmaker Mike Leigh, has sadly passed away at the age of 77.
The news of his death was officially announced by the British Society of Cinematographers, who expressed their deep sadness at the loss of their esteemed friend and colleague.
Pope was highly regarded for his innovative approach to cinematography and his dedication to preserving the art form. He was known for his willingness to embrace new technologies while also honoring the traditional skills and craftsmanship of his predecessors.
His most notable collaborations were with Mike Leigh, spanning over 11 films, starting with their work on “Life is Sweet” in 1990. Their partnership continued with acclaimed projects such as “Naked,” “Secrets & Lies,” “Another Year,” “Peterloo,” and “Vera Drake.” Pope’s exceptional work on the period drama “Mr. Turner” earned him an Oscar nomination.
Reflecting on their creative process, Pope once described it as a “magical mystery tour,” highlighting the unpredictable and exciting nature of their collaborations.
In a statement, Leigh emphasized the importance of their long-standing partnership, comparing Pope to a prized musical instrument that enhances the artistic vision of the creator.
Aside from his work with Leigh, Pope also received critical acclaim for his contributions to films like “The Illusionist,” “The Way of the Gun,” “Me and Orson Welles,” and “Motherless Brooklyn.” He collaborated with a diverse range of directors, including Chiwetel Ejiofor, Gurinder Chadha, and Barry Levinson.
His final project, Leigh’s latest film “Hard Truths,” premiered at the Toronto Film Festival to rave reviews. The poignant drama, starring Marianne Jean-Baptiste, is expected to be released later this year and has already generated Oscar buzz.
Prior to the production of “Hard Truths,” Pope underwent major heart surgery, demonstrating his resilience and commitment to his craft.
Dick Pope is survived by his wife, Pat, leaving behind a legacy of groundbreaking work and artistic collaboration that will continue to inspire future generations in the world of cinematography.