Kerri Kenney-Silver Hosts 40th ASC Awards: A Night Celebrating Cinematography’s Evolution
The American Society of Cinematographers (ASC) celebrated its 40th annual Outstanding Achievement Awards on March 8th at the Beverly Hilton, with actor, writer, and producer Kerri Kenney-Silver at the helm as host. The event, livestreamed globally, marked a significant milestone for the organization, growing from its humble beginnings with around 100 attendees hosted by Gregory Peck to an audience exceeding 1,100 today.
A Look Back at 40 Years of Visual Storytelling
The ASC Awards have long been recognized for honoring excellence in cinematography across film, television, music video, and documentary. This year’s ceremony included a look back at the Society’s history, with an opening indicate reel celebrating four decades of groundbreaking visual artistry. The ASC Awards Program Book provided attendees and online viewers with detailed information about the nominees and honorees, alongside a nostalgic nod to the aesthetic of 1986, the year of the first awards.
“The Oner” Takes Home the Episode of a Half-Hour Series Award
One of the evening’s highlights was the presentation of the Episode of a Half-Hour Series Award, sponsored by Red Digital Cinema. Adam Newport-Berra was awarded for his operate on The Studio – “The Oner.” This win marked Newport-Berra’s first ASC Award nomination, building on his previous success with an Emmy Award for the same project in 2025. His portfolio includes features like The Invite, Good Fortune, Splitsville, and The Last Black Man in San Francisco, as well as episodes of The Bear.
M. David Mullen Honored with Career Achievement in Television Award
The Career Achievement in Television Award was presented to M. David Mullen, ASC, by actress Rachel Brosnahan. Mullen’s cinematography played a key role in defining the visual style of The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, blending classical techniques with expressive color. His extensive credits include features like The Love Witch and Jennifer’s Body, and series such as Smash, Big Love, Westworld, and Get Shorty. He has previously earned two ASC Awards and three Emmy Awards for his work.
ASC Awards Reflect Industry Trends
The ASC Awards consistently highlight emerging trends in cinematography. The recognition of “The Oner” suggests a continued appreciation for innovative, technically challenging single-seize sequences. This technique, while demanding, immerses the audience in the scene and demonstrates a high level of skill from both the cinematographer and the entire production team. The celebration of Mullen’s career underscores the importance of a distinctive visual style in television, as networks and streaming services increasingly prioritize high-quality, cinematic storytelling.
The Rise of Single-Take Cinematography
Single-take cinematography, exemplified by Newport-Berra’s winning work, is gaining traction due to its ability to create a sense of realism and immediacy. This technique requires meticulous planning, precise camera movements, and seamless editing, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in visual storytelling.
The Importance of Visual Style in Television
As streaming platforms compete for viewers, visual style has become a crucial differentiator. Cinematographers like Mullen are instrumental in creating a unique aesthetic that defines a show’s identity and attracts a dedicated audience.
FAQ
Who hosted the 40th ASC Awards?
Kerri Kenney-Silver hosted the 40th ASC Awards.
Who won the Episode of a Half-Hour Series Award?
Adam Newport-Berra won for his work on The Studio – “The Oner.”
Who received the Career Achievement in Television Award?
M. David Mullen, ASC received the Career Achievement in Television Award.
Where was the ceremony held?
The ceremony was held at the Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, California.
Was the ceremony livestreamed?
Yes, the ceremony was livestreamed worldwide at theasc.com.
Did you know? Gregory Peck hosted the very first ASC Awards ceremony, which was held at the ASC Clubhouse and attended by approximately 100 people.
Explore more about the ASC Awards and the art of cinematography at theasc.com.
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