From the outer-space to Hollywood. RED GEMINI has paved its way to the big screen. Rambo: Last Blood, which marks the last chapter of the legendary series, was shot on the RED DSMC2 GEMINI S35.
RED Gemini: From Outer-Space to Filmmakers’ kit
The RED GEMINI was first made in a minimal edition status for use in the outer space. Only six sensors were developed. The primary purpose of this extremely sensitive sensor was (and still is) for low light scenarios. However, the professional filmmaking community wanted this sensor, and thus, RED has decided to turn the GEMINI into a new line of DSMC2. The GEMINI turned out to be one of RED’s most popular camera.
DSMC2 camera for dark missions
The main advantage of the GEMINI 5K S35 is that it leverages dual sensitivity modes to provide creators with greater flexibility for a variety of shooting situations. Whether capturing with GEMINI’s Standard Mode for well-lit conditions or its Low Light Mode for darker environments. Besides, the sensor’s 30.72 mm x 18 mm dimensions allow for greater anamorphic lens coverage than with the HELIUM or RED DRAGON sensor.
Cameras that are being used by Hollywood’s blockbusters are considered reliable and own big-screen quality standards which grant them a stamp of prestigiousness. Although ARRI is (for now) is the dominant camera in Hollywood’s productions, RED is making its steps inside mainly with Helium and Monstro
GEMINI for the crowd
The Gemini has earned a lot of recognition in the filmmaking community. Cinematographers love the option of dual ISO and clean imagery even on the shallow light environment. The Gemini is unique in the DSMC2 facility in the way that it can switch native sensitivities. Practically speaking, the Gemini can operate in both typical and dimly lit scenarios without prematurely blown highlights or excessive noise, respectively. Reviewers praised the Gemini for its capabilities and performances in almost every aspect. These reasons convinced RED to build a dedicated filmmakers’ kit with all the necessary components to start shooting.
The GEMINI in Hollywood
It’s always lovely to reveal new cameras used on high-end productions. Cameras that are being used by Hollywood’s blockbusters are considered reliable and own big-screen quality standards which grant them a stamp of prestigiousness. Although ARRI is (for now) is the dominant camera in Hollywood’s productions, RED is making its steps inside mainly with Helium and Monstro.
As for the Gemini, it made its baptism of fire pretty quick, since according to the IMDB Tech Spec, the upcoming Rambo movie was shot on it.
The question remains, why using the Gemini on blockbuster production when there is plenty of budget for sufficient lighting? The answer is more simple than the question itself. The GEMINI loves the dark so it can be utilized well it that environment. According to BTS footage, there are a lot of dark sequences in the film, which makes it logical to use the GEMINI.
Conclusions
As said, it’s always a pleasure to explore a new camera being used by a Hollywood feature. I’m pretty sure we’ll start to see more Blackmagic URSAs as well. However, it’s important to remember that there is also a decent amount of politics involved, so take in mind that it’s not always about the camera itself.
