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REFERENCES
chris fawcett, steadivision, the seamless storytelling continuum
Diva is one of those very rare beasts, a short film that is both engaging and satisfying. Of course in common with the very best shorts films it is also frustrating as hell as it leaves you aching for a feature length version to find out the whole story. What Diva skillfully and effortlessly includes in its just over 6 minutes running time is: a simple story which immediately draws you in; a roller coaster of genuine and (for a refreshing change) genuinely believable emotions; a superb portrayal of the lead character Vincent; and some hugely impressive cinematography (Chris Fawcett).
Added into the mix is a very effective soundtrack, some beautiful steadicam shots of metropolitan Paris, and one of the best chase sequences since the shoplifting chase scene through the streets of Edinburgh in 'Trainspotting'.
I have to say that short films are often self-conciously aimed at 'the industry' and, therefore, do not stand alone as a piece of entertainment. Diva, however, avoids that pitfall and that is testament to the considerable skills (and considerable potential) of both director / writer Josephine Mackerras and cinematographer Chris Fawcett.
Here is hoping that we get to see much more of their work in the future, and at the very least, an extended short of Diva.
Chris has been a regular and valued part of the Newsnight production team for several years. His work with the programme, covering politics, features and international events, has demonstrated his ability in often demanding and stressful situations.
Whether covering a news event or making long-form documentaries, Chris's ideas and advice were always imaginative, yet practical. His broad knowledge of international culture and politics gave him an active role in the editorial process.
Technically, his work is of course first rate. For Newsnight, he performed just as well with a quick interview done beside a busy road as he did setting up a complicated round table discussion.
I can recommend Chris for employment in all fields of broadcast work.
Stephen Carson, Producer, BBC Newsnight
Chris Fawcett is one of the freelancers whom the BBC have used on a regular basis in Northern Ireland. His work has always been of the highest order, and he is a valuable member of any film crew.
Working in Northern Ireland can present extra difficulties and occasional dangers but Chris has always managed to deliver top quality work under even the hardest circumstances. What marks Chris out is that he combines a professional expertise with a sensitive and good natured personality that can adapt to any situation.
In short, Chris is a genuine asset to any team and I would have no hesitation in giving him the highest possible recommendation.
John Mc Ghie, Series Producer, BBC News and Current Affairs
I am writing in reference to the employment of Chris Fawcett within Peakviewing. I can confirm that Chris was employed by us on 5 fixed term contracts filming travel documentaries during the period of April 2001 until March 2002 in the capacity of Cameraman/Director.
Chris excelled within his position, always producing creative work in often difficult situations. Working on five-week shoots throughout Europe demanded hard work and tenacity, which Chris employed at all times. Within each block he completed his quota of programs in an efficient and competent manner, his language skills contributing greatly to the success of the series.
During his time with us Chris proved to be a valued employee. I would not hesitate to offer him a position within our organisation again.
Kirstie McCall, Human Resources, Peakviewing Transatlantic
I was fortunate enough to engage Chris Fawcett to work with me as Director of Photography on a series Life in the Bus Lane, which was shot in Amsterdam.
Chris works exceedingly well with other members of the crew and the production staff. He is pleasant and is an excellent communicator. He is always on time for any meetings and on shooting days.
Chris gives 100% to whatever task he is given. He takes direction well and is a professional through and through. He will always go that extra mile to get a better shot.
I would definitely engage Chris Fawcett again and would strongly suggest that he should be considered for any productions for which you require an excellent DoP.
Garry B Midmer, Producer, Mudlark Productions
I have found working with Chris on 3 Viewing4Leisure series over the course of the last nine months, to be a great pleasure.
Chris liases closely with Production and Post Production, and our editors consider his camerawork, combining superb compositions with confident moves, to be amongst the finest. Even in the worst of conditions Chris is hard working, flexible and reliable. He is a strong team leader and an excellent communicator with a great sense of humour, but also a good listener with an eye for subtler detail often missed by others. All this combined with a technical mastery makes Chris the perfect all-rounder.
I would happily recommend him as a positive addition to any Production team, and I look forward to working with him again in the future.
Suzanne Evans, Production Manager, Viewing4Leisure
Herr Chris Fawcett hat mich bei diversen Dreharbeiten in Nordirland begleitet. Ich kann ihn wegen seiner hohen Professionalität und seines symphatischen Auftretens nur empfehlen.
Christian Oosterman, Producer, Deutsche Welle
Miracles Production has engaged Chris Fawcett on numerous occasions and has found him creative, technically confident, enthusiastic and reliable. His role has invariably extended beyond the confines of his job description. In consideration of his pro-active contribution to the Miracles Production projects he has been involved in, I fully expect that we shall continue to make use of his services in the future.
Dave Johnson, Director, Miracles Productions
