Be Inspired

Metastatic cancer took cinematographer Gordon Willis from this world in 2014 at age 82. Famous for his work on all three Godfather movies, his talent speaks for itself. He also worked on a number of other significant films, including Annie Hall, Manhattan, and All the President's Men. Three films he shot- The Godfather, The Godfather Part II, and Annie Hall- all won best picture at the Academy Awards. Between '71 and '77, seven films he shot received a total of 39 academy award nominations, and 19 wins. He himself, earned two Oscar nominations for cinematography for The Godfather Part III and Zelig. Willis worked in almost every genre- from screwball comedy to period pieces to westerns. Editor and publisher of American Cinematographer magazine, Stephen Pizzello stated "If there were a Mount Rushmore for cinematographers, Gordon's features would surely be chiseled into the face." And yet, most people have no idea who Gordon Willis is or was or what he contributed to history or to American culture. Of course, this statement is excluding filmmakers, film students, film historians, etc etc. But Gordan Willis, I doubt was ever a household name and certainly never will be in the future. There just seems to be something wrong with that. That a person can achieve so much in their life and career and shape great pieces of art that undoubtedly touch many people, but go practically unrecognized. And yet not a single American doesn't know the name Kardashian. What a twisted world. I certainly don't have the answers on how to solve such a conundrum, but I would like to challenge myself and those around me to try. Even if it's simple and small. Turn off the reality TV. Put down the Paris Hilton magazine. Focus on what matters and the people who make a difference. Let them inspire you to make a difference as well.