"Rekindling Cinematic Passion: The Collaborative Journey Behind Apple+'s 'Sugar'"
Richard Rutkowski, ASC, is a cinematographer whose work encompasses indie features, documentaries, commercials, and major streaming productions. Richard’s work is most recently seen in Apple TV+ dramas "Masters of the Air" and "Sugar." His work on "Sugar," also earned him his first Emmy nomination.
His photography on the first seasons of FX’s Cold War spy drama "The Americans" drew critical acclaim. Likewise, his camerawork on the wartime drama Manhattan earned glowing mentions and two ASC Award Nominations for Best Cinematography. Additional credits include the pilot and three seasons of Amazon’s international action hit "Jack Ryan," USA Network’s surrealist drama "Falling Water," and Hulu’s "Castle Rock". Most recently, Richard filmed the pilot block of "The Hunting Wives," a new series produced by Lionsgate for the Starz Network.
While working as first assistant to extraordinary cinematographers such as Ed Lachman ASC; Eric Edwards; David Stockton ASC; and the late Freddie Francis BSC, Rutkowski continued lensing short films and indie features for emerging directors. After earning a Grand Jury Prize at Slamdance for Kevin Asher Green's minimalist mini-DV film "Homework," Rutkowski shot director Neil Burger’s debut feature, "Interview with the Assassin," nominated for Independent Spirit Awards in Best First Feature and Best Cinematography categories.
Reuniting Over a Shared Love for Film: The Making of "Sugar"
In a cinematic homage to the rich tapestry of film noir, cinematographer Richard Rutkowski, ASC, with longtime collaborator and director Adam Arkin reunited to for several episodes of Apple+'s series "Sugar." Their collaboration, rekindled after several years, is a testament to their enduring passion for cinema and a shared spirit of adventure that permeates their work.
A Neo-Noir Vision
"Sugar" unfolds as a compelling detective story, weaving elements of classic film noir with contemporary sensibilities. Rutkowski, drawing from nearly four decades of cinematic experience, infused the series with bold and adventurous stylistic choices that garnered critical acclaim. His deep-seated love for cinema is evident in every frame, reflecting meticulous attention to detail and an unwavering commitment to the craft.
Crafting the Intrigue: Filming Techniques and Challenges
Rutkowski delved into the intricacies of filming "Sugar." Central to his approach was maintaining an intimate camera proximity to the protagonist, Sugar, to encapsulate his enigmatic aura. This close choreography was further enhanced by the collaborative inputs of actor Colin, whose insights into camera movement enriched the visual narrative.
One of the most daunting sequences involved a crane shot over the iconic Warner Theatre marquee. Coordinating this intricate shot amidst a crowd of 200 required meticulous planning and execution. Yet, Rutkowski viewed such challenges not as obstacles but as opportunities for growth, culminating in powerful, emotionally charged scenes—most notably a static yet potent moment in Episode 4.
An Ode to Los Angeles
Set against the sprawling backdrop of Los Angeles, "Sugar" captures the city's multifaceted essence. Rutkowski and his team drew inspiration from LA's diverse culture and architecture, echoing the visual stylings of classics like "Chinatown" and "LA Confidential." Their vision sought to juxtapose the city's inherent harshness with its latent beauty, mirroring the protagonist's journey through the depths of human nature.
This exploration manifested in a deliberate play of multicolored lights, profound shadows, and authentic cityscapes. The team's commitment to spontaneity and authenticity ensured that the city's soul was as much a character in the series as the actors themselves.
Script Analysis and Visual Storytelling
Rutkowski's approach to visual storytelling is deeply rooted in thorough script analysis. He meticulously annotates scripts to unravel the subtext and context, ensuring that the visuals resonate with the narrative's core. Respecting the script's tone and the actors' positions within the story, his notes often encompass technical nuances like camera placements and the strategic use of surveillance footage, all aimed at enhancing the storytelling.
The Unsung Heroes: Colorists in Modern Cinema
Highlighting the evolving dynamics of filmmaking, Rutkowski shed light on the pivotal role of colorists in the industry. Collaborating closely with the colorist team for "Sugar," they embarked on a journey to craft an initial visual palette that accentuated the series' thematic elements. This involved shooting in challenging lighting conditions and fine-tuning the hues in post-production. Rutkowski underscored the colorist's integral role in realizing the director's vision, ensuring that the final product authentically mirrored the intended aesthetic.
