COWLEY PICKS HENLEY

Matt studied film theory at Victoria University before deciding to head to the Film School in 2006 to learn the practical aspects of film making. He cites cinematographer Harris Savides as an influence and says he admires the dark and high contrast style of films such as The Game and Yards. When director Jonathan Withey wanted a dark and seedy look for Manslaughter, Mary Anne Bourke's screenplay about an ex-con who is blackmailed into committing a murder, Matt chose Kodak Vision 2 500T 7218 fast tungsten stock. He knew the crew would have to shoot quickly because of the number of locations, and knew also that the stock was ideal for working in low light conditions and with night street lighting.

The night scenes were what impressed cinematographer James Cowley, who judged the competition for the first time this year. He particularly liked Matt Henley's use of street lighting and mixed colour temperatures, and says the heavy exposures really suited the theme.

'Matt had taken the script, and with light and framing, greatly enhanced the storyline,' Cowley says. 'This is the essence of Cinematography - taking the criteria laid out on the pre-production table and translating them with the tools at hand into the visual story.' He goes on to say he felt the film could easily have a place in the Montana Sunday Theatre slot.

Matt graded the film at Park Road Post, and appreciated the guidance of another Matt, colour grader Matt Wear. 'We're lucky that Park Road Post is so handy to the Film School,' he says. 'It's such a fantastic facility, and Matt couldn't have been more helpful.'

He says he's also grateful for camera operator Paul Wong's quickness and ease at setting up the Film School's Arriflex SRII, and relaying information about framing.

The Film School's head tutor, John Reid, believes the competition win is especially gratifying at the end of a 40 week course. 'It's a reflection of the emphasis the New Zealand Film and Television School places on film, not to mention Crew 13's hard work,' he says.

The annual Kodak competition is part of the world Student Filmmaker Programme and is designed to encourage outstanding young filmmakers who specialise in cinematography.

Matt Henley, whose award will enable him to compete with other winners from the Asia Pacific region for the top prize of a trip to an International Film Festival in France says he's keen to find work in the camera department – anywhere, anytime.