Michael Chapman

Michael Crawford Chapman, A.S.C. (November 21, 1935 – September 20, 2020) was a distinguished American cinematographer and film director, celebrated for his significant contributions to the American New Wave cinema of the 1970s and beyond. With a career that spanned several decades, Chapman collaborated with renowned filmmakers including Martin Scorsese and Ivan Reitman, bringing their visions to life through his striking cinematography.

Throughout his impressive career, Chapman lens over forty feature films, showcasing his exceptional talent and versatility. Notably, he worked extensively with just three directors, a testament to the strong creative partnerships he built in the industry. His collaborations with Scorsese resulted in iconic films such as "Taxi Driver" (1976) and "Raging Bull" (1980), both of which are regarded as masterpieces in American cinema.

In addition to his work with Scorsese, Chapman earned acclaim for his contributions to comedies like "Ghostbusters" (1984) under Reitman’s direction. His unique visual style and innovative techniques left a lasting impact on the field of cinematography, earning him recognition within the American Society of Cinematographers.

Michael Chapman's legacy endures through his influential body of work, which continues to inspire cinematographers and filmmakers alike, highlighting his pivotal role in shaping the visual language of modern filmmaking.