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York graduate plays key role in Oscar-winning cinematography for The Brutalist

York graduate plays key role in Oscar-winning cinematography for The Brutalist

Posted on 20 May 2025

A University of York lecturer has spoken of his pride after the work of a film and television production graduate contributed to the Oscar-winning success of The Brutalist.

Máté studied on York’s BSc Film and Television Production programme

Máté Ternyik served as colourist on the visually stunning drama, which contributed to Director of Photography, Lol Crawley, winning the Academy Award for Best Cinematography at the 2025 Oscars.

Máté studied on York’s prestigious BSc Film and Television Production programme, graduating in 2016.

Work ethic

As colourist, he worked closely with Crawley and the post-production team to enhance the emotional tone of the imagery, using advanced grading techniques to bring depth and atmosphere to every frame.

Matt Brannan, Head of Film and Television at York, praised Máté’s achievement: “We are delighted to hear of Máté’s success. He was always such a talented, creative and technical student, with meticulous attention to detail and a strong work ethic.

“It’s wonderful to see how his dedication has paid off so early in his career. I predict this to be the first of many successes for him in what I’m sure will be a long and distinguished journey in the industry and we’re all really proud to have been able to play some part in his early development at York.”

Breathtaking visuals

The Brutalist, directed by Brady Corbet, has been widely acclaimed for its ambitious storytelling and breathtaking visuals, with many critics citing its cinematography as a defining element of its impact. Ternyik’s subtle but essential role in shaping the film’s visual identity is now being celebrated as part of its success story.

His work was featured in British Cinematographer, Creative Bloq, and highlighted by Blackmagic Design, underscoring the technical skill and artistic vision he brought to the project.

Graduating in 2016, Máté is part of a growing number of York alumni making waves in the global screen industries and his achievement reflects the calibre of talent nurtured by the University’s School of Arts and Creative Technologies, which is well known for blending rigorous creative training with hands-on technical experience in all areas. As the industry continues to recognise the value of high-level post-production artistry, Máté Ternyik’s name is quickly becoming one to watch.

Career opportunities

He returned to York early in May to take part in a very well attended Q&A with students from the School who were able to ask questions about his role as a colourist on The Brutalist and many other exciting projects from the past and upcoming.

This was a great opportunity for the students to learn about exciting career opportunities available in industry but also an inspiring discussion about what rewards can come from hard work in the creative sectors.