Donald McAlpine ACS, ASC, a renowned Australian cinematographer, was born on April 13, 1934, marking the beginning of a remarkable journey in the world of filmmaking.
Prior to embarking on a career in the film industry, McAlpine spent a significant amount of time working as a physical education teacher in Parkes, New South Wales, Australia, where he was responsible for teaching and mentoring students.
Despite his dedication to his teaching profession, McAlpine's passion for photography and storytelling led him to explore the world of filmmaking. He began using a 16mm camera to capture the athletes preparing for the Melbourne Olympic Games, which ultimately served as a stepping stone for his future endeavors in the film industry.
Noted cinematographer Donald McAlpine embarked upon a prolific collaboration with acclaimed director Bruce Beresford in Australia, a partnership that spanned nearly a decade from 1972 to 1981. During this fruitful period, McAlpine and Beresford joined forces to create a diverse array of notable films that have left an indelible mark on the cinematic landscape.
Some of the most notable films resulting from this collaboration include the irreverent comedy "The Adventures of Barry McKenzie", its sequel "Barry McKenzie Holds His Own", the raucous party film "Don's Party", the poignant coming-of-age drama "The Getting of Wisdom", the crime thriller "Money Movers", the critically acclaimed war drama "Breaker Morant", and the gripping drama "The Club".
Furthermore, McAlpine also had the opportunity to work with esteemed director Gillian Armstrong on the highly acclaimed film "My Brilliant Career", a testament to his versatility and range as a cinematographer.
Brian McAlpine's impressive and extensive work in the film industry garnered him an Academy Award nomination for his remarkable contribution to the critically acclaimed movie, Moulin Rouge!. This esteemed recognition is a testament to his exceptional skill and dedication to his craft. As a respected member of both the Australian Cinematographers Society and the American Society of Cinematographers, McAlpine's peers and colleagues have come to regard him as a master of his art. The American Society of Cinematographers, in particular, honored his outstanding achievements by presenting him with the prestigious 2009 International Achievement Award. This accolade is a reflection of his unwavering commitment to excellence and his profound impact on the world of cinematography. In addition to this impressive recognition, McAlpine received an honorary doctorate in Arts from Edith Cowan University in Perth, Western Australia, in 2016. This esteemed honor was bestowed upon him in recognition of his significant and far-reaching contributions to the field of cinematography, a testament to his enduring influence and legacy in the industry.
