The American Society of Cinematographers (ASC) is accepting applications for the 2004 ASC Conrad L. Hall Heritage Award. The award is presented annually to one or more students in advanced classes at colleges and universities in the United States with qualified film school curriculums. Each year, the Heritage Award is dedicated to the memory of a different cinematographer who has made enduring contributions to advancing the art of filmmaking.
"This honor is designed to inspire the next generation of cinematographers, and help them pursue their dreams," related Laszlo Kovacs, ASC, chairman of the ASC education committee. "It also celebrates the memory of our most extraordinary artists. Conrad Hall was a giant among cinematographers and filmmakers."
Hall earned 10 Oscar nominations for cinematography, winning three times—for Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid in ’69, American Beauty in ’00 and Road to Perdition in ’03. The latter was won posthumously; Hall died on Jan. 4, ’03, in Los Angeles at the age of 76.
He also garnered four ASC Outstanding Achievement Awards in features for Tequila Sunrise in ’88, Searching for Bobby Fischer in ’93, American Beauty and Road to Perdition. His filmography as a DP also included Cool Hand Luke, Marathon Man, Without Limits, Black Widow, Harper, Fat City, Jennifer Eight and Class Action.
The balance of Hall’s Oscar nominations were for the films Morituri, The Professionals, In Cold Blood, The Day of the Locust, Tequila Sunrise, Searching for Bobby Fischer and A Civil Action.
While Hall is best known for his feature film work, he also made his mark in the advertising community. He partnered with noted cinematographer Haskell Wexler in the now defunct spot production house Wexler Hall, where both directed assorted commercials.
I had occasion to meet Hall a couple of times during spot shoots. I was struck by how unassuming he was, a trait often counter to those who have accomplished so much in film. Not surprising, though, was how meticulous and painstaking he was in getting the work just right. On one of those shoots, I remember a young intern telling me what an education it was to watch Hall direct and shoot. He described Hall as being very giving of his time and expertise when it came to helping young people who were starting out in the filmmaking discipline.
Thus it’s incredibly fitting to see the Heritage Award named after Hall this time around. Hall studied filmmaking and cinematography at the University of Southern California’s film department in Los Angeles. He then moved into the industry, serving a brief apprenticeship as an assistant cameraman and operator, which earned him his first narrative credits for the TV series Stoney Burke and The Outer Limits. His first feature credit was for Wild Seed in ’65.
Presentation of the Conrad L. Hall Heritage Award to the recipient or recipients will take place during the 18th annual ASC Outstanding Achievement Awards on Feb. 8, ’04, at the Century Plaza Hotel, Los Angeles.
Film school department deans and chairs are invited to recommend students for the award. Eligible students must be in their final year of school or have graduated within the past year. The winner or winners will be selected by a jury of ASC members. The deadline for entries is noon, on Oct. 31.
For more info about the 2004 ASC Conrad L. Hall Heritage Award, contact Patty Armacost at (323) 969-4333 or visit the ASC Web site (www.theasc.com) to download an application or get further details.
