Project Overview
Return to Cranford was a 2 part BBC1 flagship Christmas Special broadcast in 2009. Directed by Simon Curtis and Produced by Sue Birtwistle. It was shot on Sony F35 to HDCAMSR 4:4:4 by DOP Ben Smithard BSC
Content Synopsis:
The spectre of the railroad looming heavy in her conscience, Miss Matty (Judi Dench) rejoices upon learning that her maid Martha (Claudie Blakley) and carpenter Jem (Andrew Buchan) are expecting a child. Miss Matty’s concern for young Peggy Bell (Jodie Whittaker) growing due to the fact that the young girl lives in virtual seclusion with her mother and overbearing brother, the kindly matriarch attempts to bring the two siblings together with William (Tom Hiddleston) and his cousin Erminia (Michelle Dockery) , who have recently returned to Cranford with Mr. Buxton (Jonathan Pryce). Meanwhile, Captain Brown (Jim Carter) receives word that work on the line has ceased, and scrambles to get the project back on track. Later, a sudden tragedy sends the entire town reeling.
Project Synopsis:
Picture conform was carried out on Avid DS from the HDCAMSR 4:4:4 rushes. This was first sync checked against the locked offline pictures before being output ready for the grade. Senior Colourist Gareth Spensley used Filmlight Baselight for the grade and worked closely with the DOP to create the Cranford “look”. A number of VFX shots were completed by our VFX team. These included a green screen scene on a locomotive, adding flickering flames to lanterns and the addition of snow to an entire scene. Final Online and deliverables were carried out by Senior Editor Justin Eely, using Avid DS.
Awards and Nominations:
Return to Cranford was nominated for several Emmy and Bafta awards
