The world of cinema optics just got a whole lot more exciting with the introduction of the Zeiss Horizon Anamorphic series. This new range of full-frame 2x anamorphic lenses is a game-changer, offering filmmakers a unique blend of creative possibilities and technical advancements.
The Anamorphic Advantage
At the heart of these lenses lies the anamorphic look, a signature style characterized by its oval bokeh and stretched depth. This aesthetic choice adds a distinct cinematic flair to any production, setting it apart from traditional spherical lenses. What makes the Horizon series truly special, however, is its ability to marry this artistic flair with a host of practical benefits.
Versatility and Control
Zeiss has engineered these lenses with a neutral baseline look, ensuring they are incredibly versatile. They can easily adapt to various filtration, LUTs, and lighting setups, giving filmmakers the freedom to experiment and craft their desired look. Furthermore, the proprietary look-tuning back element, accessible via the Zeiss Interchangeable Mount System (IMS), allows for a quick and easy alteration of sharpness, contrast, and character with just an eight-screw swap. This level of control is unprecedented and opens up a world of creative possibilities.
Motorized Precision
The Horizon series takes a giant leap forward with its fully integrated motorized system. Focus and iris motors are seamlessly built into the lens body, offering compatibility with industry-standard ARRI and Preston lens control systems. This integration simplifies the filmmaking process, allowing for precise control and faster production workflows. The absolute encoders, factory-calibrated and stored within the lens, ensure accurate metadata, further streamlining post-production processes.
Future-Proof Design
Zeiss has future-proofed the Horizon series with built-in processing and on-board memory, paving the way for potential autofocus integration and broader ecosystem compatibility. This forward-thinking design ensures that these lenses will remain relevant and adaptable as technology evolves. With a fast T2.3 stop across the full-frame coverage set, these lenses offer the shallow depth of field that anamorphic lenses are renowned for, providing filmmakers with the creative flexibility to play with focus and bokeh.
Practical Considerations
The Horizon series is not just about aesthetics and technical prowess; it's also designed with practicality in mind. The consistent 114mm front diameter across all seven lenses facilitates balanced operation, whether handheld, on a gimbal, drone, crane, or car rig. This level of versatility ensures that filmmakers can work seamlessly across a wide range of shooting scenarios.
A New Chapter in Cinema Optics
With the Horizon Anamorphic series, Zeiss has truly brought the next chapter of cinema optics to life. By combining cutting-edge technology with a refined, human-centric cinematic feel, these lenses offer a unique blend of artistic expression and technical excellence. As Christophe Casenave, head of Zeiss' cinematography business unit, said, "Horizon marks a new reference platform that integrates lens motors, data, and ecosystem compatibility, enabling faster, end-to-end production workflows."
In my opinion, the Horizon series is a testament to Zeiss' commitment to pushing the boundaries of what's possible in cinema optics. It's an exciting development that will undoubtedly shape the future of filmmaking, offering a new level of creative control and technical precision. The future of cinema looks bright, and Zeiss is leading the way.
