Robert Elswit is a renowned American cinematographer, celebrated for his exceptional work on a wide range of critically acclaimed films. His impressive filmography includes iconic titles such as Boogie Nights (1997),Magnolia (1999),Good Night, and Good Luck (2005),There Will Be Blood (2007),Mission: Impossible - Ghost Protocol (2011),Inherent Vice (2014),and Nightcrawler (2014).
Elswit has established a long-standing collaborative relationship with director Paul Thomas Anderson, having worked together on numerous projects. Additionally, he has had the opportunity to work with the talented George Clooney on several occasions. One notable instance was the production of Clooney's black and white, Oscar-nominated film Good Night, and Good Luck, in which Elswit played a crucial role in capturing the film's unique aesthetic.
What is particularly noteworthy about Elswit's work on Good Night, and Good Luck is that he shot the film in color, before converting it into black and white during the post-production process. This creative decision added an extra layer of complexity to the film's visual style, further emphasizing its artistic merit.
Elswit's exceptional skills as a cinematographer have earned him numerous accolades, including an Academy Award nomination for Best Cinematography in 2006 for his work on Good Night, and Good Luck. Two years later, he would go on to win the Oscar for Best Cinematography for his outstanding work on There Will Be Blood, solidifying his reputation as one of the most talented and respected cinematographers in the industry.