“Light Keeps Me Company”, is Carl Gustaf Nykvist´s moving documentary film about his father’s work, turbulent private life and his celebrated collaboration with Ingmar Bergman with whom he made some of his most enduring work, including Winter Light (1962) and Scenes from a Marriage (1973). “We are proud to have this opportunity marking the official opening of Beyond Blond 2007 to showcase the life and work of one of Sweden’s legendary filmmakers,” says Tomas Rosander, Consul General of Sweden.
Sven Nykvist who died in 2006 at 83 years old, worked on over 120 films. His work is noted for its naturalism, simplicity and an extraordinary, poetic use of light.Comments Swedish actor Stellan Skarsgård “Though the creator of some of the most beautiful imagery in film history Sven worked without conceit or vanity and the aesthetics of his pictures were always subordinate to the essence of the film, the story and the scene. His passion was simplicity, the natural light and the human face, from which his magic could conjure every ounce of life possible.” Nykvist won the Academy Award for Best Cinematography for two of his movies, "Cries and Whispers" (1973), and "Fanny and Alexander " (1982), both of which were Bergman films. He collaborated extensively with directors outside Sweden including Louis Malle (“Pretty Baby”), Philip Kaufman (“The Unbearable Lightness of Being”), Bob Fosse (“Star 80”), Nora Ephron (“Sleepless in Seattle”), Woody Allen (“Another Woman,” “Crimes and Misdemeanors” and “Celebrity”), Richard Attenborough (“Chaplin”) and his fellow Swede Lasse Hallstrom (“What’s Eating Gilbert Grape”). “Sven Nykvist was the Michaelangelo of cinematography,” comments Steven Gaydos, Executive Editor and International Managing Director, Variety. “It is both an honor and a duty of Variety to host a tribute to his remarkable contribution to the history of filmmaking”. The tribute event promises to be attended by the many actors, actresses and movie industry leaders who have worked and collaborated with Nykvist during his stellar career. Beyond Blond 2007’s guests at the opening tribute event are also invited to attend a private viewing of Hammer Projects: Ola Pehrson, on view through May 27 at the Hammer Museum.Location:Hammer Museum10899 Wilshire Boulevard Los Angeles CA 90024Time:April 10 at 7pmParking available at the Hammer for $3.Hammer Screenings are free and seating is first come, first served.For further information please visit Hammer MuseumFor screening time and ticket information please visit The Billy Wilder Theater