Vimeo is partnering with Canon to release the feature-length documentary Bending the Light, directed by veteran filmmaker Michael Apted (the Up Series, Gorillas in the Mist, The World is Not Enough). Bending the Light, a celebration of the craft of visual imaging, explores the relationship between the artisans who create camera lenses and the professionals who depend on their lenses to capture their creative visions.
Bending the Light features never-before-seen footage from inside Canon’s lens factory in Utsunomiya, Japan, intimate interviews with lens engineers, and a peek into the world of award-winning photographers and cinematographers Stephen Goldblatt, BSC, ASC, Greg Gorman, Simon Bruty, Laura El-Tantawy and Richard Barnes.
“Bending the Light is a movie that speaks to Vimeo’s core community of creators,” said Sam Toles, vice president, content acquisitions and business development, Vimeo. “Michael Apted’s compelling documentary gives life to the lenses and glass that make all the films we enjoy so beautiful.”
“My hope for this film was to show the connection between Canon Japanese lens makers and a handful of talented professional photographers; at a glance, seemingly disparate entities, but both artisans in their own right. Bending the Light is not a technical story, it’s one about the humanity behind every image,” said Apted. “I’m thrilled a global audience will be able to reflect on the artistry of this powerful visual medium.”
“Michael Apted has created a very moving and inspiring documentary showcasing the passion and dedication of lens makers who devote their life’s work to creating the high quality optics professional image makers rely on every day,” said Yuichi Ishizuka, president and COO, Canon U.S.A. “We are thrilled that this story can now be shared around the world.”
Bending the Light will retail on Vimeo on Demand for $4.99 for a 48-hour streaming rental or $12.99 for download to own. For more information, visit https://vimeo.com/ondemand/bendingthelight.
