Joker 2 (Joker: Folie à Deux) is a cinematic masterpiece. The camera that created it is the acclaimed ARRI ALEXA 65. However, the magical lens that shot it is the mighty MasterBuilt ULTRA65 which is a dedicated glass to cover the enormous sensor of the ARRI 65. Explore it below.

The MasterBuilt Lenses: The glass behind Joker 2

Joker 2 (Joker: Folie à Deux) was shot on ARRI ALEXA 65 and ARRI ALEXA Mini LF by cinematographer Lawrence Sher ASC who is a fan of the MasterBuilt lenses which are designed to cover large format sensors. In that case, the main lenses were MasterBuilt ULTRA65, paired with the Anastigmant series, and specially tuned NIKKOR NOCT Lens (rehoused by Zero Optik). This article focuses on the ULTRA65. These lenses were developed and intended for a true large format. As stated by Masterbuilt (the company who rehoused them): “The MasterBuilt ULTRA65 series does not simply cover the 65MM but they are specifically designed for and manufactured to surpass the 56mmX28mm sensor size”. Indeed, this was needed as the main camera that shot Joker 2 was the ARRI 65. MasterBuilt Lenses has been at the forefront of 65mm and 70mm camera sensors for over 5 years. “With In-depth knowledge and real-world experience – we have designed the Ultra 65 series lenses specifically for cameras with extremely large image sensor size”, the company says and hints at the Blackmagic URSA Cine 17K 65.

MasterBuilt ULTRA65: (Very) Large Format cinematography

The MasterBuilt ULTRA65 Series is designed for true Large Format (65MM 5-Perf Film & Digital). The entire ULTRA65 Series maintains the MasterBuilt character with an added vintage feel. Initially designed for large-format Cinematography, the ULTRA65 Series offers a refined image that draws the eye with enhanced three-dimensionality and structure. The 4 focal lengths (21MM T1.8 / 29MM T1.8 / 40MM T1.8 / 65MM T1.8) act as excellent companions to the Classic and Soft Flare Series, adding the intricate sizes cinematographers need. The MasterBuilt ULTRA65 series is designed for a true large format (IMAX, ARRI 65, Blackmagic URSA 65, 5 Perf 65MM film).

The ULTRA65 series

The entire ULTRA65 series maintains the MasterBuilt character and look. Designed from the ground up and was originated for the ARRI 65 camera sensor, the ULTRA65 series offers a refined image that draws the eye with enhanced three-dimensionality and perspective. The ULTRA65 series lenses evoke the feeling of an image from the past, with a soft contrast leading to gentle transitions between sharp and soft elements. In addition to the advantage of generous image circle and coverage, the ULTRA65 series lenses act as excellent companions to the Classic and Soft Flare series, adding the intricate focal lengths cinematographers seek out. The MasterBuilt lenses are designed and inspired directly by cinematographers’ vision. Extensive testing and in-depth conversations have produced each singular lens series. MasterBuilt employs exceptional optics and looks to the past for stylistic images and analog elements. The MasterBuilt Lenses are manufactured with exceptional craftsmanship and the highest quality materials for absolute resilience. The “LOOK” is formulated to create brilliant three-dimensional separation and smooth background reproduction (bokeh), while utilizing the mechanics and function of modern technology to produce a lens of simple precision. a masterpiece aesthetic and high-quality optics.

Coverage

The MasterBuilt ULTRA65 covers ALEXA 65 open gate, Fuji GFX 100II Full-Sensor mode, Panavision system 65, and now the Blackmagic URSA Cine 17K 65. There are fast lenses as well. Here’s the focal length and speed: 21MM T1.8, 24MM T1.8, 29MM T1.8, 35MM T1.8, 40MM T1.8, 55MM T1.8, 50MM T1.4, 65MM T 1.4, 85MM T1.4, 105MM T1.4, 135MM T1.4.

Pricing and availability

No info about pricing. You can’t buy those directly from dealers so you would want to contact MasterBuilt directly on their website. So if you want the ‘Joker look’, and shoot on medium format, you might check out those.