RoboCop (1987) / Jost Vacano, ASC

Episode #56

RoboCop (1987) / Jost Vacano, ASC


The cinematographer discusses his expert camerawork on this brutal sci-fi satire directed by Paul Verhoeven.

American Cinematographer contributor Iain Marcks talks with cinematographer Jost Vacano, ASC about his work on the brutal sci-fi satire RoboCop (1987), directed by Paul Verhoeven. 


Verhoeven (left) and Vacano plan their next shot as actor Ronny Cox — playing nefarious OCP executive Dick Jones — stands by.

The cinematographer breaks down his visual approach, his careful use of the subjective camera, the withholding of a full shot of the RoboCop character until late in the film, and his use of a custom-built handheld camera rig.


Actor Peter Weller in an exceptional makeup supervised by Rob Bottin.

American Cinematographer interviews cinematographers, directors and other filmmakers to take you behind the scenes on major studio movies, independent films and popular television series.

Subscribe on iTunes

Subscribe Today

Act now to receive 12 issues of the award-winning AC magazine — the world’s finest cinematography resource.

October 2024 AC Magazine Cover
September 2024 AC Magazine Cover
August 2024 AC Magazine Cover