The WME agency announced the passing of scenographer B. Ling, who died in Santa Barbara after a battle with cancer. Ling was recognized for her significant contributions to the film industry, most notably for her work on Once Upon a Time in Hollywood (2019).
She shared the Academy Award for Best Art Direction with decorator Nancy Haigh for her immersive craftsmanship. For Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, Ling meticulously recreated the authentic atmosphere of Los Angeles in 1969. Her designs incorporated historically accurate elements, ranging from period billboards to the iconic architecture of the Hollywood boulevard.
Reflecting on the project, Ling emphasized director Quentin Tarantino’s dedication to verisimilitude from the outset. She stated that Tarantino insisted on achieving maximum authenticity for the film, deliberately avoiding reliance on computer-generated effects. According to reports, Ling noted that the director desired a tangible reality for the production, stating, “He wanted everything to be real – so you could see, feel and believe in that world.
No green screen, no digital decorations. He wanted real Hollywood.” Her commitment to tangible detail helped define the look of the film, making it a standout piece of modern cinematic history.
Topics: #hollywood #film #once
