Dan Laustsen

1.1. Early Life and Education

Dan Laustsen was born on June 15, 1954, in Aalborg, Denmark, to Aage Aarup Laustsen and Ellen Laustsen. From a young age, Laustsen harbored an ambition to become a photographer for National Geographic. This early aspiration indicates a deep interest in visual storytelling and capturing the world through a lens. He pursued his passion by enrolling in the prestigious National Film School of Denmark, where he studied from 1976 to 1979. His education there provided him with the foundational knowledge and practical skills necessary to embark on a career in cinematography.

2.1. Cinematography Activities

Laustsen's professional career as a cinematographer has seen him involved in a wide array of productions, including feature films, documentary films, and commercial advertisements. His visual style is often described as rich and immersive, demonstrating a keen understanding of how to manipulate light to evoke specific moods and enhance narrative depth. For instance, in his work on The Shape of Water, he revealed a practical approach to judging exposure without relying solely on a light meter, showcasing his intuitive mastery of the craft. His involvement as a member of both the Danish Society of Cinematographers and the American Society of Cinematographers underscores his standing and influence within the global cinematography community.

2.2. Filmography

Dan Laustsen's filmography includes a wide range of feature films, television projects, and documentary works, showcasing his versatile talent across different genres and production scales.

2.3. Major Collaborations

Dan Laustsen has forged significant and recurring collaborations with several notable directors, which have shaped key periods of his career and contributed to some of his most recognized works.

One of his most prominent partnerships is with Mexican director Guillermo del Toro. Their collaborations began with the 1997 horror film Mimic and continued with the Gothic romance Crimson Peak (2015), the critically acclaimed fantasy drama The Shape of Water (2017), and the neo-noir thriller Nightmare Alley (2021). Their most recent announced project is Frankenstein. Laustsen's dark, atmospheric, and often fantastical visual style perfectly complements del Toro's distinct cinematic vision, contributing significantly to the immersive worlds of these films.

Laustsen has also established a strong working relationship with American director Chad Stahelski, particularly on the highly successful John Wick franchise. He served as cinematographer for John Wick: Chapter 2 (2017), John Wick: Chapter 3 - Parabellum (2019), and John Wick: Chapter 4 (2023). His work on these films is characterized by dynamic, high-contrast lighting and fluid camera movements that enhance the stylized action sequences and the distinctive neon-lit aesthetics of the series.

Another long-standing collaboration is with Danish director Ole Bornedal. Their joint efforts include the original Danish horror film Nattevagten (1994) and its American remake Nightwatch (1997). They also worked together on films such as I Am Dina (2002), The Substitute (2007), Just Another Love Story (2007), and Deliver Us from Evil (2009), as well as the television miniseries Charlot og Charlotte (1996) and 1864 (2014).

Furthermore, Laustsen has a history of collaboration with Danish director Søren Kragh-Jacobsen, dating back to early works such as Gummi-Tarzan (1981), Isfugle (1983), Skyggen af Emma (1988), and The Miracle in Valby (1989). These partnerships highlight Laustsen's enduring impact on Danish cinema throughout his career.

3.1. Major International Awards

Laustsen has been recognized by several prestigious international film organizations for his outstanding cinematography, including nominations for the Academy Awards and BAFTA Awards, and wins from the American Society of Cinematographers and various critics' associations.

Academy Awards

BAFTA Awards

American Society of Cinematographers

3.2. Danish Domestic Awards

Laustsen has been highly honored within his home country, receiving multiple awards from Danish film institutions, including the Robert Awards and Bodil Awards.

Robert Awards

Bodil Awards

3.3. Other Critics' and Guild Awards

Laustsen has also garnered significant acclaim from various film critics' associations and guilds, recognizing his distinguished work on specific films.