John Mackay

John Mackay’s filmography isn’t exactly lightweight—he’s got some real heavy hitters under his belt. Let’s talk Cruella. That movie? Total visual feast. It’s this wild, punk-fueled ride through 1970s London, flipping the classic villain story on its head. Mackay’s work behind the scenes helps crank up the chaos and glam, making every scene pop. The costumes alone? Outrageous. Emma Stone’s Cruella is a tornado of charisma, and the whole vibe screams rebellion and high fashion disaster in the best possible way. Then you’ve got Living, which swings in a completely different direction. It’s understated, quiet, just devastating. Bill Nighy plays this civil servant who gets hit with some bad news and suddenly starts asking himself the big, scary questions about life and meaning. Mackay’s touch gives the film this gentle, almost poetic rhythm. It’s not flashy, but it sneaks up on you. Suddenly you’re feeling all sorts of things, maybe even tearing up without meaning to. And Judy? Oh man. That one’s all heartache and glitter. Renee Zellweger straight-up disappears into Judy Garland, digging into all the pain and hope that swirled around her final concerts in London. Mackay’s technical skills make the whole thing shimmer, but it’s never cold. There’s sweat, tears, and broken dreams humming through every frame. Not everyone gets how much work goes on behind the curtain, but Mackay’s fingerprints are all over these films—bringing out the wildness, the beauty, and the heartbreak in ways that stick with you long after the credits roll.