EnergaCamerimage, the international cinematography-focused film festival, will honor Oscar winner Sam Mendes with the Special Krzysztof Kieslowski Award for Director during its 30th anniversary edition, which will run in Toruń Poland Nov. 12-19.
The helmer’s “Empire of Light,” starring Academy Award winner Olivia Colman (‘The Favourite,” “The Lost Daughter”) and BAFTA-winner Michael Ward (“Blue Story,” “Top Boy”), will open the Camerimage fest in addition to being one of the Main Competition nominees.
Apart from “Empire of Light,” Mendes’ notable films include “American Beauty”(for which he was awarded the best director Oscar). “Road to Perdition,” “Revolutionary Road,” “Skyfall,” “Spectre”And “1917.”
Mendes was a theatre founder and director. He ran the Donmar Warehouse in London, for ten year. Neal Street Productions, and The Bridge Project were also founded by Mendes. His work can be seen at the National Theatre (RSC, Royal Court), Old Vic, Young Vic and BAM as well as on Broadway.
“Empire of Light,”This is his most recent film. It’s a dramatic drama about human connection in turbulent times. It takes place in and around an abandoned cinema in a coastal English town in the early 80s. It follows Hilary Colman, a cinema manager who struggles with mental health, and Stephen Ward, a new employee who longs for a better life. Through their unusual and tender relationship, the two discover a sense of belonging.
“Empire of Light”Mendes is also reunited with Roger Deakins (Oscar-winning cinematographer), who shot two of the director’s films. “1917”And “Skyfall”.
Mendes was nominated for an Oscar and also received three Academy Awards nominations. He has also won numerous BAFTA Awards as well as Tonys, Tonys, and Olivier Awards.
Mendes will be on hand at Camerimage to accept the award and participate in a Q&A after the screening of his film.