Lisa McDiarmid

Lisa McDiarmid might not be a household name yet, but her fingerprints are all over some of the most visually striking films in recent years. Dig into Ex Machina (2014) and you’ll see her touch everywhere, from the sleek, unsettling labs to the eerie, minimalist interiors that make you feel like you’ve wandered into a nightmare designed by IKEA. Then there’s Cruella (2021), which—let’s be real—could’ve flopped hard if not for the film’s killer style. The costumes? Insane. The sets? Straight out of a punk rock fashion mag. Lisa helped bring that whole world to life, making Cruella’s London both grungy and glam at the same time. And don’t even get me started on Annihilation (2018). That movie’s a fever dream—mutated landscapes, shifting colors, plants that look like they’re plotting against you. It’s weird and gorgeous, and Lisa’s work behind the scenes is a big reason why. She doesn’t just decorate sets, she builds moods—whether it’s the cold, clinical vibe of Ex Machina, the riotous rebellion in Cruella, or the trippy, unsettling beauty of Annihilation. Honestly, if you dig movies that look as good as they feel, you’ve probably seen her work, even if you didn’t realize it. She’s got a knack for making every shot pop, blending style and substance in a way that sticks in your brain long after the credits roll. Seriously, keep an eye on her—she’s just getting started.