September 1, 2026

Shot Talk – BEEF: Season 2 with DP James Laxton, ASC

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Summary

In this episode of Shot Talk, Cinematographer James Laxton, ASC sits down with director/cinematographer Patrick Cady, ASC for an in depth conversation about the second season of BEEF.

From drawing inspiration from the late Martin Parr’s photography, to becoming the first long form series to shoot on the ARRI ALEXA 265, James breaks down the creative choices behind the critically acclaimed series.

Key moments

  • 00:01:03 Finding a Shared Visual Identity with Season 1
  • 00:03:20 The Most Important Collaborators for Production Challenges
  • 00:05:02 Maintaining a Consistent Visual Language with Multiple Directors
  • 00:06:47 Using Light and Color to Convey Generational Cycles
  • 00:09:52 Scene Breakdown: The Clinic Conversation; Slow Camera Movement and Powerful Performances
  • 00:13:13 Using Moving Color to Add Contrast to an Environment
  • 00:15:19 How Cinematography Can Support Drama with Visual Comedy
  • 00:17:48 A Guide to Lighting Faces Naturally
  • 00:19:39 Scene Breakdown: The Hotel Room Conversation
  • 00:21:04 Balancing Practical and Naturalistic Light
  • 00:24:06 Designing and Shooting the Oner Action Sequence
  • 00:28:10 How Hard Boiled (1992) Helped Them Choreograph the Scene
  • 00:29:33 Splitting the Screen with Architecture to Represent Character Relationships
  • 00:32:03 Referencing “Michael Clayton” and “The Graduate” for the Taxi Scene
  • 00:35:32 Scene Breakdown: The Street Chase; Connecting Separate Locations Through Simple Visual Geography
  • 00:38:25 Keeping Complicated Sequences Simple
  • 00:40:33 Scene Breakdown: The Hospital Scene
  • 00:44:23 Referencing Bergman and Martin Parr
  • 00:46:52 Scene Breakdown: The Golf Course; Uncomfortable Cleanliness and Embracing Bright Light
  • 00:49:51 Advice to Your Younger Self
  • 00:52:36 How Filming Mufasa: The Lion King (2024) Changed James’ Approach to Cinematography
Where to watch

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