Cosimo murgolo

​Wow this is just awesome.  Definitely inspiring and I'm glad he blogged about the entire process.  This is a great system when used in this fashion.  More set pieces rather than run-and-gun.  And just a greet feel to the footage!

​Made with the FM
Delta Airlines commissioned this piece to help celebrate the spirit of aviation, all the details here:
http://boydhobbs.com/delta
 
 

I was always interested in how different taking lenses with work with anamorphic lenses and how much character would come through even behind the anamorphic optics. I figured I will do a little test of the cheaper manual lenses I currently own. The test was for image quality and flaring.  All lenses used with Isco ultra star anamorphic lens with Focus Module. All shot on the GH4 using the 4K photo mode. Some shots may not have critical focus as it was a single man job. Graded shots at the end. All graded shots share the same setting and not ideal but just to give a basic idea. Would appreciate any comment on which image you prefer. 

Lens list 
#01 Pentax Super Takumar 28mm F3.5 
#02 Pentax Super Takumar 50mm F1.4 
#03 Pentax Super Takumar 50mm F1.4 with cheap focal reducer 
#04 Contax Zeiss 50mm F1.7 AEJ 
#05 Contax Zeiss 35mm F2.8 MMJ 
#06 Mamiya Sekor C 80mm F1.9 Medium format   

Wow so much drama people, chillout. Everyone has different views, getting angry at each other won't help anyone. 
Well I had much scepticism with the FM before I bought it because it was only a prototype product and the company wasn't being exactly clear on how to use it etc. However, the important thing is, it is of some use for budget end filmmakers like me who can't afford single focusing anamorphics. I find it definitely helps me quickly get shots when I'm out shooting because of the single focus. It's still got a lot of quirks but to the right people it is valuable. 
 
Anyway back on track, did a little test, getting shots have become much quicker since I can single focus with the FM now. This is a relevantly cheap setup as I got the takumar for about $70(US), Isco Ultra star for about $400, FM was about $750.
Pentax Super Takumar 50mm 1.4, Isco Ultra Star Anamorphic Lens, Focus Module Lens, Panasonic GH4, Natural Picture Profile with all settings dialed down, Simple color grade in Premiere, BGM : Bic Runga 'Listening for the Weather'

I did a quick test with the Must HD field monitor, GH4 and the Atomos HDMI cable (with isco ultrastar). I was meaning to do this earlier but a friend wanted to borrow the monitor to see if it was worth bulk purchase for their shop. This is for anyone who is interested in similar setup. 
Ok so to summarize what I think overall, this set up is great but not perfect (yet). The monitor image quality is good and works well with GH4 menu interface etc. but GH4 still needs firmware update for HDMI output for the 4k Photo mode, so that is a downside for the moment for anamorphic lens users like us. I don't think I can get a exact aspect ratio of the image I get from a 2x lens even if we get the firmware update because the monitor is fixed to certain aspect ratio modes (can't be customized). However I can get fair idea of the final outcome using these modes.  I think this monitor wins over even smallHD in terms of image quality and functionality, especially when you think of the price point. I just wish it had a better looking menu and a more robust body build. My friend who borrowed the monitor mentioned that the changeable battery mount on the back is a unique feature at this price point. 
The atomos HDMI to micro HDMI cable is GREAT.... like reallllyyyyy solid great. I don't need to worry about it one bit while shooting. Especially with the cable lock on the MustHD. Not sure if there are any other video purpose built cables like this but this is by far the best one i've used for a filming situation. 

Monitor hood flips out into place with a spring or something. Design is really good, materials not so much. I wouldn't want to drop it. This is a shame because I really think the lack of a solid steel body build will put a lot of people off from buying this monitor even though other features on this thing are great. 

Made a cluttery mess for the test. 

The Atomos cable you see here is the longer version (19.6-25.6") 

2x Squeeze from the Ultrastar lens. 

2.35 aspect ratio mode on the monitor. Exact same image as above, just desqueezed 

couldn't resist.... 
 
 

Using the Vizelex ND Throttle (Lens Adapter with build in variable ND) will change the character of the Lensflares.
First image plain Adapter (Nikon G to M43) Second image with Vizelex ND Throttle.
Both at f2,8. Vizelex @ minimum setting will take at least on stop, compensated here with shutter speed adjustment. 
 
 

​You can order a FF58 version that is readily fitted to use with an Iscorama anamorphic adapter.
If you don't have an Iscorama, you can also order just an FF58 with the custom options you want: color of flaring, amount of flaring etc. I have two FF58's. One lens with more flaring and less contrast, as well as one lens with less flaring and more contrast. They are fun lenses for creative shooting. I like mine since they tend to produce a look that doesn't seem as digital, boring and strict/perfect as my modern Nikon lenses. I use mine both as standalone lenses as well as paired with the Iscorama.
If you want to experiment with different looks, I can highly recommend getting an FF58 with less contrast and a bit of flare an tint. Very affordable way to get a different vintage look on your footage and stills.

This is the answer Andrew,  a customer feedback.
Let's move on man, I do apologize to you again, really sorry!!!
I bow to the man with all the power. Thanks for having me on your forum, what else you want me to do.
 

You guys are acting like a bunch of kids. It's really painful to watch.

I didn't have the time to read the 16 page thread on something I didn't yet even own.
Although I did mention I'd be using it with my Kowa 8Z in just about every email to you, with not a single correction from you until after it arrived.
And as late as the 30th Jan was ready to "dust it off" on your advice...

Not very nice to blame me for being unprofessional and for not having the right anamorphic to fit it.
You were supposed to send the FM with the Cinelux, which is what I was expecting to review... pretty impossible otherwise.
That's what you said would happen!

The blog certainly isn't a market, although sometimes it feels like one.
​Mindaugas at the Anamorphic Shop is first to admit the project has benefited from this forum and my members...

Yet you still cannot find within yourselves the gratitude to properly inform me, to not mislead me, or even to send me the proper kit so that the review is not impossible.

​I was actually using the Glass from a 72mm Filter. (which is smaller than the Filter diameter itself)

Hello Cosimo, I'm not on Facebook but feel free to repost anything you consider useful.
 

Is there any test footage of these units out there yet?

A variation on the Flare inducing UV-Filter method established by Hans Punk.
To get the Filter as close as possible to the back of the Cinelux I placed just the Filter-Glass inside the Step-Up Ring which is coupling my Lens with the Focus Module.
68mm Filter-Glass fits perfectly inside a 52mm to 72mm Step-Up Ring and leaves enough play to screw it firmly to the FM.
 

​My firm advice is to wait for better solutions.
We're all hungry and curious for better lenses, especially 2x.
I've always thought from the moment I got my Kowa 4 years ago, "if only". If only it would be a single focus anamorphic.
The image is just so wonderful.
I know for a fact better anamorphic solutions are on the way.... wait and see.
Cosmio, the reason the thread stays is that I am not here to act as a marketing platform. You can't just suddenly delete everyone's contribution to the thread, because some people don't praise the product. Yes I personally found it "not good enough" quite simply and nor the service or communication. That's up to you to improve, not us. We are not paying for your R&D or market research. We are filmmakers who just want to get the look of anamorphic.
I was interested like many in the FM, willing to take the time to explore it. That you on your part and at the Anamorphic Shop in Latvia didn't bother to provide the full kit, speaks poorly of the service aspect. If you can't even service EOSHD, what hope does a 'normal' customer have?

Hi!
I've got couple orders for a follow focus gear for the FM lens. Made few pieces, and accepting preorders currently to see if I should make larger next bunch now.
Please contact me if you need one.
http://rafcamera.com/en/accessories/ff-gears/gear-fm-lens-88-107-32mm
Thanks.

Andrew I understand your frustration.  I feel similar sentiments since I've had to buy an Isco Ultrastar and a Schneider Cinelux, as I didn't want to take apart my Kowa or Sankor.  The lack of instructions, and the feeling that it's more prototype is also a concern.  But I admit that it's a first run product by a small shop of guys.  I think everyone understands there are growing pains with anything that's new.  We're kinda like the beta testers here.  I knew that going into this and it's why I was hesitant at first to buy.  In fact it wasn't until I started seeing footage from Cosimo and Hans Punk that I took the chance.  I know you're used to having a "final" product to test, but this is a small shop.  I think your situation is unfortunate, but that's how it goes I guess.  In any case I hope Anamorphic Shop can continue to grow so that they can refine their product.  I really look forward to the new designs.  And I have sent them my concerns about the FM as it is far from perfect.  Similar to what I told Andrew at SLR Magic about their design.  Let's look towards a bright future for anamorphic lenses!

Well I guess it's time to move on. Hard to argue against so much funded wisdom.
Seems like I have to dump my sharp single focus 2x Cinelux / FM combo.
Must be my fault that I can't produce soft, distorted images with lots of lovely CA like other recently hyped 2x double focusing anamorphics do.
So the 75,-- bucks I had to spend for the Cinelux were a complete waste.
 
Now I need to get one of those bargain Isco 36 plastic lenses. I heard they can’t do close focus below 2m without modification or diopters, but who on earth would need to get any closer? I sure hope they come with a decent user manual.
 
 

​Hi Andrew, I am writing just to clear everything out and let all the members know what really happened.
Your demo unit arrived on the 7th of february , 3 week ago, I've never led you on anyone else to believe that the Kowa would fit inside the FM  without the need of DIY hacking and I have proofs of that. I have wrote you on the 20th of january explaining which anamorphic would fit inside the FM see the attachment file.
When you received your demo unit you wrote me asking for instructions on how to fit your kowa cos you couldn't figure out, remember that?
I then wrote you straight away again explaining you that you would need to disassemble your focus gear in order to fit your kowa inside the FM, and that the FM was created for the Schneider cinelux, the Isco Ulrtra star in mind,  and I will attach my mails so that everyone can read that I always informed you without misleading you. 
It's not my fault if you don't read your mails, I understand that you may have been busy and missed my mails and I am very sorry that this happened as I was keen to read your review and as you know I always wanted that.
As for the sharp reply you have received from the anamorphic shop guy I wrote you another mail  only last night as I was busy working, saying that words can be misinterpreted, and he didn't mean to be sharp to you, he only answered in a very simple and honest way to your question Either you can loan me an anamorphic to use it with, or I can return it."
The guy asked you to return it  as it was too late now to have a review and gave you his address, that's all, no need to get upset and make believe everyone that it's my fault. 
I hope you understand my point,  and please do not misinterpreter my post too, thank you.
Here are my mails that you didn't read:

​Thank you Andrew, and very sorry if we did waste your time.  I will take the blame for all this , yes you are right I should have followed you and inform you more on this. Can I please ask you  a personal favor, could you or any other moderator eliminate the whole FM lounge thread please?  I am tired of this arguing over stupid stuff. Please I will appreciate it if you do.
Thanks very much and do forgive me if I troubled you again with all this.
Best
Cosimo

​Thank you Andrew, and very sorry if we did waste your time.  I will take the blame for all this , yes you are right I should have followed you and inform you more on this. Can I please ask you  a personal favor, could you or any other moderator eliminate the whole FM lounge thread please?  I am tired of this arguing over stupid stuff. Please I will appreciate it if you do.
Thanks very much and do forgive me if I troubled you again with all this.
Best
Cosimo

I think if you don't get the lens and the name, or it upsets you or whatever, you're probably not in the target market. Move on. There are plenty of "serious" companies with inoffensive names that produce technically perfect lenses. The branding is perfect and I love my Dog Schidt!!!!!!

Great! Looks very good and not offbeat. These lenses are definintely worth considering - I think especially for a camera like the GH4 to add something special

Read the full article - http://www.eoshd.com/2015/02/dog-schidt-optiks-ff58-flare-factory-58-pl-mount-review/

​It is a focus through adapter and as all focus through adapter not sharp beyond 5.6 or so. Therefore it is no competition for an Iscorama. What I like about it is that it is light.
And maybe it is not that bad to blur the too sharp GH4 especially with modern lenses?!
Otherwise I'd prefer the other new kids on the block like FM or Rectilux. Unfortunately I haven't seen real life tests from the Rectilux yet otherwise I'd go for that with Moellers.
Also no support needed and easy swap as John pointed out.
Furthermore I don't expect the SLR 2x to be sifnificantly cheaper then one of the above mentioned competitors.