Blackmagic's URSA Mini Pro 12K leads journeys between universes in 'Do I Know You From Somewhere?'

'Do I Know You From Somewhere', a science fiction romantic comedy that combines an independent approach with an ambitious approach with multiple parallel realities, was filmed with the URSA Mini Pro 12K camera. Blackmagic Design.

First film from the Canadian production company Strike Pictures, led by Arianna Martinez, Lance Kenneth Blakney and Gordon Mihan, Do I Know You From Somewhere? was filmed during five weeks by a multidisciplinary team that required a “fluid and cohesive” work dynamic. After exploring the market, the decision was made to use the camera URSA Mini Pro 12K due to its “cinematic quality”, an essential requirement to be able to successfully participate in international film festivals such as those in Toronto (TIFF) and Busan (BIFF).

Blakney, co-producer, director of photography and co-editor of the film, provides further details on the decision process: "Our initial tests with the URSA Mini Pro 12K showed that the camera met the stylistic requirements we were looking for both on set and in post-production. This allowed me to concentrate on the creative and my role as head of photography, knowing that the unit offered the necessary technical reliability."

He visual language of the film was based on a stark contrast between shots handheld and static camera, reflecting the complex timelines of two colliding universes. Blakney alternated between both approaches thanks to the portable design of the solution. Blackmagic. Additionally, the director of photography decided to equip the camera with a portafiltros and a large glass prism in specific shots, in order to create a softer visual effect. The camera's adaptability allowed the production team to not have to choose between maintaining a high-quality look or implementing creative visual elements, making it an essential tool in achieving the film's artistic vision.

Filming in Blackmagic RAW

In order to cope with a tight schedule, Strike Pictures looked to technology for ways to make production as stress-free as possible. Among other measures, the decision was made to film in Blackmagic RAW directly into SSD drives, which were then entrusted to the digital imaging technician on set. This process simplified the editing process and reduced file sizes.

“Prior to using Blackmagic Design products, it was difficult to achieve a consistent aesthetic across our creative and commercial work. Shots from different angles were difficult to match, the quality varied and this resulted in different file types. Now, by shooting in Blackmagic RAW, we can maintain the consistency of the recorded material, which makes it easier to process in post-production,” he explains. Blackney.

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