James Oldham DoP, Discusses His Work on Hungry Joe

James Oldham is a Cinematographer born in Manchester, UK. While most of his work isn’t award winning. some of it are. Recipient of the British Society of Cinematographers (BSC) Emerging Cinematographer award in 2015, and multi-award winning cinematographer, James Oldham is a talented DP who has worked with both the smallest and the biggest studios, brands and production companies in the world.

Shooting beautiful work, he always manages to capture the essence of a story, whether it be intimate drama, grotesque horror, action packed thriller or well loved family classic. His pictures always say more than a bio ever could. A bright talent, and one to watch.

indieactivity: Take us through your preparation for the production of the film?
James Oldham (JO): Once I’ve read the script, it’s a case of whether I can visualize what’s in the writer/director’s head. What can I bring to this project that another cinematographer couldn’t bring? If I can’t find an answer to that question, then I don’t do the project. It helps when the directors are complete legends too.

Hungry Joe (2020) – Full Trailer – British Horror

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You have a science behind what you do? Do elaborate on this technicality?
James Oldham (JO): Simple is best. I spend my time turning off lights that just complicate scenes. Be flexible when you come up with a plan. Stick to it as best as possible, but when things inevitably change, accommodate and adapt

During production, what scene (that made the cut) was the hardest to shoot?
James Oldham (JO): The hardest to shoot were probably the scenes with the raw and rotting food/garbage. Where Joe eats everything on the table. The smell was outrageous, and lots of vicks was used under the noses of the crew.

Where do you think your strengths lie as a cinematographer?
James Oldham (JO): Listening to and supporting the director’s decisions, and making them work to the best of my ability. I like to think I’m a team player, and I’m always very fortunate to be surrounded by a brilliant and diligent electrical and camera department.

Tell us about your gear on this project?
James Oldham (JO): We shot on the Alexa Mini on Master Primes and the Fujinon 24-180. The majority of the film was operated from an ARRI geared head, either on a 4’ slider, or off sticks. The rest was from an easyrig, handheld.

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How would you have shot this project if your budget was 3x the figure?
JO: I wouldn’t have shot it any differently. We shot for the budget, and it worked. The crew were great, and worked through some grim cold days and nights. I would have maybe bought a couple more heaters?

How did you collaborate with the directors on the project?
JO: It all starts with the script, then the exchange of different ideas. Sam and Paul had some brilliant ideas, and interesting ways that they wanted to tell this story. Staying open, creative, and always fluid keeps you thinking and creating on the edge of your boundaries. Don’t stay comfy.

What do you hope audiences get from your work on this film?
JO: They should feel completely grossed and freaked out. That would definitely make the cold January nights in Hartcliffe, even more worthwhile.

What else have you got in the works?
JO: For the rest of 2019, I shot another 11 short films, which are just entering the festival circuit now.

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