Benjamin Kracun
Biography
Benjamin Kračun, born in May 1981, is a highly acclaimed Scottish cinematographer known for his visually striking and emotionally resonant work in film and television. With a distinctive style that blends artistic flair with technical mastery, Kračun has become a sought-after talent in both independent and major productions.
Early Life and Education
Kračun grew up in a small town in Scotland. He is the child of immigrant parents; his father is Croatian, and his mother is German. This background contributed to his perspective as an "outsider" in his formative years, which he has noted as influencing his interest in storytelling, initially through still photography.
He pursued his passion for visual arts, graduating from Napier University. He then secured a place on the prestigious cinematography course at the National Film and Television School (NFTS), a highly regarded institution in the UK. This rigorous training further developed his technical skills and creative practice.
Career Highlights and Distinctive Cinematography
Benjamin Kračun's career has seen him collaborate with a diverse range of directors, contributing his unique visual style to various genres. He is an accredited member of the British Society of Cinematographers (BSC) and, in June 2023, was invited to join the Cinematographers branch of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.
Some of his most notable works include:
- Promising Young Woman (2020): Kračun served as the Director of Photography for Emerald Fennell's critically acclaimed revenge thriller. His cinematography was praised for its bold use of color, often juxtaposing "candy-colored" aesthetics with the film's dark themes. He received a nomination for Best Cinematography from the St. Louis Film Critics Association for his work on this film.
- The Substance (2024): This body horror film, directed by Coralie Fargeat, earned Kračun the European Film Award for Best Cinematographer. The film's unique visual demands, involving extensive practical effects and prosthetics, showcased his ability to craft both grotesque and darkly satirical imagery. His work on The Substance also garnered nominations from the Austin Film Critics Association, Columbus Film Critics Association, and Indiana Film Journalists Association.
- Beast (2017): Directed by Michael Pearce, this film earned Kračun acclaim for its cinematography, contributing to its win for Best Technical Contribution at the International Film Festival & Awards Macao.
- Beats (2019): Kračun won the British Independent Film Award for Best Cinematography for his work on this film.
- Monsoon (2019): He was nominated for a Chlotrudis Award for Best Cinematography for this film.
- The Third Day (2020): He served as Director of Photography for three episodes of this HBO miniseries, Part 1: Summer.
- Dark Horse (2015): This feature documentary also featured his cinematography.
Kračun's work is often characterized by a strong sense of atmosphere, a meticulous approach to lighting, and a willingness to embrace bold aesthetic choices that enhance the film's narrative and emotional impact. His ability to adapt his visual language to suit the specific needs of each story, from the vibrant and unsettling to the gritty and realistic, has made him a highly sought-after talent in the industry.
Benjamin Kračun continues to be an active force in contemporary cinema, with upcoming projects such as Echo Valley (2025).
