Vilmos Zsigmond, the cinematographer behind the classic 1977 film "Close Encounters of the Third Kind," has died at the age of 85. The Hungarian-born cinematographer passed away in Big Sur in northern California on New Year's Day due to "a combination of many illnesses," his long-term business partner Yuri Neyman confirmed, the Los Angeles Times reported.
Zsigmond received an Oscar award for his cinematography work in "Close Encounters of the Third Kind," as well as nominations for other films such as "The Deer Hunter" (1978), "The River" (1984) and "The Black Dahlia" (2006).
Zsigmond's work is often recognized for the use of natural light and a subdued palette, which he honed from being taught the European-style cinematography that focuses on color tone and light gradations, according to The Hollywood Reporter.
Zsigmond also lent his talents in television going into his eighties, shooting several episodes of the FOX sitcom "The Mindy Project" from 2012 to 2014.
"Vilmos' genius was not only in his images, but in his sense of duty to honest storytelling," Steven Poster from the ICG said in a statement, according to Variety. "Working up close with him, I also learned about perseverance and an obligation to the story from the master. His brave beginnings providing footage from the Hungarian revolution will always be an important part of his legacy and to future generations of cinematographers and film students."
