Two Welsh Filmmakers Take Home Oscars
In a momentous occasion at the 97th Academy Awards, Wales saw its talent shine as two Welsh filmmakers were honoured with the prestigious Oscar statuettes. The evening celebrated the achievements of Laurie ‘Lol’ Crawley and Rhys Salcombe, who left a mark on Hollywood by clinching the coveted awards.
The first Welsh winner of the night was cinematographer Laurie ‘Lol’ Crawley, who secured the award for best cinematography for his outstanding work in ‘The Brutalist’. Although born in Shrewsbury, Shropshire, Crawley spent his formative years in Llansantffraid-ym-Mechain, Powys. In a heartwarming gesture, he dedicated his win to “all my friends back in Wales” and expressed his deep love for the country of his upbringing.
During an interview with BBC Breakfast, Crawley shared his pride in representing Wales on such a grand stage. He fondly reminisced about his school days at Ysgol Llanfyllin and expressed his eagerness to inspire the current students with his journey from a Welsh school pupil to an internationally acclaimed cinematographer. Headteacher Dewi Owen from Ysgol Llanfyllin praised Crawley’s success as a testament to the boundless potential of young talents in Wales.
The second triumph of the evening came courtesy of Rhys Salcombe, a special effects expert from Aberystwyth, Ceredigion. Part of the team behind the visual effects in ‘Dune: Part Two’, Salcombe’s contribution earned him the award for best visual effects. With an impressive portfolio including projects like Blade Runner 2049 and Star Trek Beyond, Salcombe has undoubtedly left his mark on the global film industry.
Unfortunately, the third Welsh nominee, Trevor Matthews, missed out on the best picture award for ‘The Brutalist’. As one of the producers of the film, Matthews, hailing from Newport, was part of the team that captivated audiences with their creative vision. Despite the loss, his nomination stands as a testament to Wales’ growing footprint in the world of cinema.
The recognition of Welsh talent at the Oscars exemplifies the creativity and artistry flourishing in the country. Laurie ‘Lol’ Crawley and Rhys Salcombe have not only brought glory to Wales but have also inspired aspiring filmmakers and artists to dream big and pursue their passions relentlessly. Their wins are a testament to the limitless potential harboured within the Welsh artistic community.
As the night unfolded with glitz and glamour in Hollywood, the triumph of these two Welsh filmmakers resonated across the globe. Their accolades serve as a reminder that talent knows no bounds, transcending borders to captivate audiences and earn well-deserved recognition. The Welsh film industry stands proud, basking in the glow of this historic moment at the Oscars.
In conclusion, the Welsh film industry is undoubtedly on an upward trajectory, poised to make even greater strides on the global stage. The victories of Laurie ‘Lol’ Crawley and Rhys Salcombe at the 97th Academy Awards serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration for creatives everywhere, reaffirming the power of storytelling and imagination to touch hearts and change lives.