A24
Uncut Gems

‘19-’20

Uncut Gems is an electrifying crime thriller about Howard Ratner, a charismatic New York City jeweler always on the lookout for the next big score. The film was directed by visionary filmmakers Josh and Benny Safdie, and stars Adam Sandler, LaKeith Stanfield, Julia Fox, Kevin Garnett, Idina Menzel, and Eric Bogosian.

Art direction and design lead for the audio visual campaign for the film “Uncut Gems.” The visuals and title design resemble the “Opal” from the film. Adding film grain,and light leaks to give the visuals a more analog aesthetic, which reinforces the gritty feel of the film.

The overall aesthetics were based on the “Opal”, and the optical effects the gem produces. Since the film was shot on vintage zoom telephoto lenses by renowned cinematographer Darius Khondji, the backplates were made to feel as if the titles were made before computers with film grain, and natural light leaks. We studied of photographic light techniques, and type design from the 70’s and 80’s. The visual identity of the campaign resembles a refreshingly analog approach to title design.

Fig. 01 — Final motion frames from the Official Uncut Gems theatrical trailer.