Game of Thrones cinematographer defends the lighting during Battle of Winterfell, says it wasn't too dark

Game of Thrones Season 8 Episode 3 was heavily focused on the Battle of Winterfell, which saw Jon Snow and the living fight for their survival against the wrath of The Night King and the dead army. Eventually, when it seemed as if The Night King was all set to reign supreme and get his hands on Bran Stark aka The Three-Eyed Raven, Arya Stark pulled through and killed him, hence saving the day. While many loved the episode, there were most who majorly complained about the lighting.

Defending the lighting during the episode was the cinematographer of the Battle of Winterfell, Fabian Wagner. Fabian has earlier been the cinematographer for iconic GOT episodes like Battle of the Bastards and Hardhome. He blamed HBO for compressing the episode which led to poorer visual quality and hence the pixelation and muddy dark colours followed. "[GOT] has always been very dark and a very cinematic show," Fabian stated while claiming that the episode needs to be seen in a dark environment, like watching a movie in a theatre. However, Wagner has some alternatives to enjoy the Battle of Winterfell.

It’s time

Fabian suggested making the viewing room at home as dark as possible and adjusting the TV settings. He also said to avoid watching the show on your phone. Wagner shared that the showrunners and director wanted the battle scenes to be "intense, claustrophobic and disorienting," like in real-life, but not confusing.

"We tried to give the viewers and fans a cool episode to watch. I know it wasn't too dark because I shot it." Fabian concluded.

ALSO READ: Game of Thrones Season 8 Episode 3 Review: The most heartbreaking battle in GOT history

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