Roger Pratt, a towering figure in cinematography, has died at age 77.
According to the US Sun, The British Society of Cinematographers has confirmed the December death of Roger Pratt, marking the end of a distinguished film career.
Pratt was born in 1947 in the Midlands, UK, where he grew up as the son of a parish vicar. His early exposure to 16mm 'fact and faith' films in the church sparked a lifelong passion for film and steered him away from a potential church career.
Pratt began his formal education at the London Film School, where he honed the skills that would soon make him a sought-after director of photography. There, he laid the foundation for a career that would span over four decades.
Throughout his career, Roger Pratt worked on more than 35 films, applying his unique visual style to each project. His work included major titles like two "Harry Potter" films, the epic "Troy," "Mary Shelley's Frankenstein," and the romantic "Chocolat."
One of Pratt's most notable collaborations was with director Tim Burton on the 1989 film "Batman." In particular, his innovative cinematography techniques significantly contributed to the visual storytelling that defined the film's dark, gothic aesthetic.
Pratt built a reputation for excellence and connected with others in the industry. He met Terry Gilliam while working on the set of "Monty Python and the Holy Grail," sparking a professional relationship that would span several of Gilliam's later films, including "Brazil," "The Fisher King," and "12 Monkeys."
Terry Gilliam recalled a telling moment with Pratt, saying, "This guy said, ‘Just give me a moment’ and in a few minutes, while we were still faffing around, he had run down the mountain, forded the river, run up the other side, into the camera truck, grabbed the right lens and here it was. We stuck it on the camera and got the shot. That was the moment I fell in love with Roger."
In recognition of his lifetime of work and contribution to the field, the British Society of Cinematographers awarded Pratt their highest honor, the Lifetime Achievement Award, in 2023. This recognition underscored the high regard in which he was held by his peers.
Society remembered him fondly, noting his humble beginnings and his impactful career: "The son of a parish vicar, the church didn’t capture his career aspirations, seeing 16mm ‘fact and faith’ films did. Roger would go on to shoot some of Gilliam’s cult classics. Our thoughts go out to his family at this time."
The details of Pratt’s death, including the specific date and location, have not been made public, respecting the privacy of his family and loved ones during this difficult time.
News of Pratt's passing resonated deeply with fans and colleagues alike, many of whom took to social media to express their sorrow and admiration. For instance, a fan paid tribute, illustrating the deep connection many felt to his work: "Farewell to the incomparable Roger Pratt. We'll miss his light."
Similarly, another fan simply added, "Goodbye to the great Roger Pratt," capturing the feeling of loss felt by those who admired his cinematic contributions.
As the film industry reflects on Roger Pratt's legacy, his influence on cinematography remains clear. Indeed, his artistic vision and dedication to the craft have left an indelible mark on the films he worked on and the filmmakers he inspired.
Roger Pratt's achievements are celebrated by an industry grateful for his contributions and by audiences who continue to enjoy his films. Moreover, his work lives on, not just on screen, but in the teaching and inspiration it provides for future generations of cinematographers.
Pratt's journey from a filmmaker's son in the Midlands to a legendary figure in international cinema is a testament to his skills, creativity, and the impact one individual can have on the art of motion pictures. In essence, his legacy continues to shape the world of film.
