MIRAGE invites this year’s nominees for the MIRAGE Cinematography Award to a roundtable conversation offering an in-depth exploration of the distinct and very different visual approaches to filmmaking represented by the nomiees. The discussion will be moderated by Sturla Brandth Grøvlen (Another Round, Last and First Men, Warsailor, Victoria), who, as this year’s sole jury member, will determine the award winner.

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‍Timo Salminen, renowned for his long-term collaboration with Aki Kaurismäki, represents the singular vision of Eureka by Argentine auteur Lisandro Alonso. This marks their second collaboration after Jauja (2014), with Eureka blending stylistic perfection, tension, and poetic depth, interwoven with numerous cinematic references.

Hilal Baydarov, who serves as cinematographer, producer, screenwriter, director, and editor of his own films, demonstrates extraordinary dedication and intricate detail in the poetic audiovisual language that defines his body of work. His latest film, Sermon to the Birds, continues his tradition of crafting visually rich journeys that explore the dialogue between humanity and nature.

Stefan Sick, celebrated for his long-standing partnership with director Nicole Vogele, has cultivated a magical quality of tone, texture, and presence through his stunning 16mm cinematography. Films like Nebel (2014), Closing Time (2018), and the European Film Awards-nominated The Landscape and the Fury capture the fleeting magic of the moment.

Inadelso Cossa is a film director, producer and DOP, member of the (AMPAS) Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Science since 2020. Founder of 16mmFILMES; a production company focused on creative documentary and feature films. His unique approach and distinct sensory cinematography creates a unique feeling of presence in this film.