I’ve often said that I think movie magic is actually music magic. Many times it is the film score that is the heart of the film. But a very close second would be production design. While film and TV are essentially a two-dimensional exhibition of a three-dimensional world, plenty of skilled craftsmen, artisans and stage hands weave their own magic to create a sense of place. Grand cinematic adventures from The Wizard of Oz to The Matrix to Oppenheimer doesn’t physically come through the screen, but visually you still feel the weight, density, and the depth that make those worlds believable.
Some of the greatest production designers in history aren’t household names, but in the industry they are certainly regarded as superstars. And a lot of directors – who have a particular style consistent with their vision – credit the work of cinematographers or production designers for making their work so memorable and distinctive, especially when working with the same team film after film. Ridley Scott has Arthur Max, Tim Burton has Bo Welch and Rick Heinrichs, and the Star Wars universe has Norman Reynolds and Rick Carter.
Today we get to speak to someone we hold in equally high regard as those mentioned above. Paul Cripps is a Production Designer, Art Director and all-around nice chap who has more than 30 years in the business. Some hit the professional world after college, but Paul has been charting this path from a very young age. Many times what sparks a child’s interest at a young age can stick with them. In this case, Paul literally had a film crew descend on his home town of Woodstock to film the early Harrison Ford film Hanover Street. Suffice to say, he was hooked and the film world reeled him in without a fight.
As a freelancer, his career has been very productive and diverse. His most recent project was a little show you might have heard of if you’re a fan of mustaches and footballers. The world said goodbye to Ted Lasso this year, and after three seasons of heartwarming hilarity, prolific positivity, and characters you will never forget, Paul created the backdrop to the entire series, and while the jokes were funny, and the messages warmed your heart, Paul’s work was more than a feast for the eyes, it was the icing on AFC Richmond’s crown.
We spent an hour with Mr. Cripps to talk about experiences, his heroes, and several fun behind-the-scenes stories. Hope you enjoy this session with Paul. We sure did!!
