Lights, camera, ethics!

Uh Oh is a comedy short film that explores unethical technology, inspired by the director’s personal experience with virtual reality. Cinematographer Aman K Sahota discusses shooting a markedly different film about prejudice and discrimination.

Bias, prejudice, bigotry, and discrimination are often anticipated, unless the perpetrator isn’t human. Welcome to the world of dystopian tech. Cinematographer Aman K Sahota, having previously collaborated with director Emily Fred Sharp on various commercials, was approached by her a couple of years ago with the concept, drawn from her first-hand encounter with dystopian technology – it was primarily developed for able-bodied users and neglected those with disabilities.

From this initial spark, Uh Oh evolved.

“I loved the concept of addressing the important issue of bias within the tech space and presenting it as a ‘sellable’ hard truth,” Sahota explains. “It’s not just a topical discussion but also one crucial for ethics. Emily leaned into her strength as a commercial director, giving Uh Oh an infomercial style. We decided early on to shoot in 4X3 and play with the Pathé-inspired style to convey information.

Tech on tech

Sahota chose to film with an Alexa Mini LF and Panavision Primos for their balanced contrast and resolution, fitting the commercial aesthetics with a nod to vintage infomercials of the 50s and 60s. She applied a Hollywood black magic filter to soften the edges and used a LUT developed specifically for the short.

Sahota shooting with her ARRI

Tech hub

The film was shot at the Arts Hub in South London, offering ample space and flexibility for the production’s needs. Access to the space beforehand allowed the art department to dress it accordingly, creating the desired ‘meta world’ atmosphere.

Sahota aimed for a blend of ‘Pleasantville meets Pathé’ with a touch of satire in the lighting, using soft top lighting and sky panels for fill. Additional Asteras in the background added depth and colour to complement the set’s palette.

The sound design by Wave Studios played a crucial role in underpinning the comedy, drawing inspiration from the 1950s commercial and comedy camp with references to Bewitched, Mr Clean, Hanna-Barbera cartoons, and The Stepford Wives.

Two shots were done on a greenscreen for the ‘pipeline’ and ‘Know it All’ mirror, intended to feel whimsical and comical. Additionally, an illustrator worked on the skin suit scene. Emily and I aimed to shoot everything live-action to authentically capture the infomercial style of a bygone era.

“Uh Oh” holds up a mirror to emerging tech and the ethics—or lack thereof—behind it.

 Uh Oh is available via www.uhoh.info