The short film “Dreaming of a Better Place” has been enhanced through the use of DaVinci Resolve Studio for its grading process, bringing out the nuanced visuals that director Cameron Thuman envisioned. The documentary follows Jeff Gostlin as he carries on his father’s legacy by running Keefer Lake Lodge, a cat skiing business in Canada’s Monashee Mountains.
Director and Colorist Collaboration
Directed by SixTwentySix’s Cameron Thuman and shot by Director of Photography Christopher Clark, the film aims to break away from traditional ski documentaries. “We aimed to create visuals that exist between reality and a dream,” Thuman explained, emphasizing the importance of having the right colorist for the project.
Company 3’s Parker Jarvie was brought in as the colorist due to his experience and emotional connection to the subject matter. “Having recently lost my father, I had an immediate connection to Jeff’s story,” Jarvie said, highlighting how he wanted to honor the film’s tribute to Gostlin Sr.
Technical Approach
Jarvie used DaVinci Resolve Studio to tackle the film’s diverse lighting conditions and varied shooting environments. He employed Power Windows to shape frames and maintain depth, adjusting contrast and saturation to enhance each shot. “For nighttime shots, I leaned into deep shadows and rich blue tones,” Jarvie noted, describing his technique for balancing daytime and nighttime footage.
The grading process also focused on creating separation in colors and directing the viewer’s attention within each frame. Jarvie brought out dominant colors and used subtle Power Windows to add warmth or coolness as needed. “It was about drawing the eye into each shot while keeping it grounded,” he explained.
Collaborative Effort
Thuman, Clark, and Jarvie worked closely throughout the grading process, using mood boards and specific notes to guide their choices. “We trusted Parker’s eye and watched how quickly he could translate our ideas,” Thuman said, praising the collaborative nature of the project.
The film premiered at the 2022 Whistler Film Festival and screened at the American Documentary Film Festival in Palm Springs. It is available to watch online on Vimeo.