During IBC 2018, Cooke Optics introduced the Anamorphic/i Full Frame Plus lens with an image diagonal of 43.27 mm and a 1.8x squeeze. The full frame lineup will offer 32, 40, 50, 75, 135, and 180mm focal lengths at T2.3. Cooke says the 50mm will be released first with the rest surfacing over the next 12 months. 

This is Cooke's third set of anamorphic lenses following the Anamorphic/i Primes in 2013 and the Anamorphic/i Zooms in 2016 which both support Super 35mm (image diagonal of 33.54 mm ). The full frame versions will have a 270° focus throw, an industry standard 110 mm (4.43 in) front diameter,and will be slightly heavier than the S7/i Full Frame Plus Primes. Aesthetically, the Anamorphic/i Full Frame Plus will produce a similar "Cooke look" in skin tone, bokeh, and flare while supporting lens metadata through its i/Technology. 

What's interesting is the 1.8x squeeze. Common occurrence is usually 2x. Les Zellan, Chairman, Cooke Optics explains, "After a great deal of research and discussion, we believe the 1.8 squeeze of the Anamorphic/i Full Frame Plus range gives the best results for full frame anamorphic. At 2x you would lose too many pixels, and at 1.6x (the correct ratio to use every pixel) you will not get enough of the anamorphic character. Our solution at 1.8x gives the image a greater anamorphic feel at the aspect ratio of 2.40:1 whilst capturing 90% of the pixels, therefore keeping this format well within industry resolution standards. However, because these are Full Frame Plus lenses designed to cover the full still frame of 24x36, you can elect to use 100% of the pixels which will result in an aspect ratio of 2.70:1.”

The new lenses will be compatible with Super 35 cameras as well as the Canon C700 FF and RED MONSTRO. Both ARRI and Sony has announced 1.8x support for its Alexa LF and VENICE cameras. Our guess is that we'll be seeing full frame anamorphic zooms next. 

Tech Specs: 

  • 36 x 24mm Coverage (image diagonal of 43.27mm)
  • 32, 40, 50, 75, 135 and 180mm Focal Lengths
  • 110 mm Front Diameter
  • 270° Focus Throw
  • T2.3-T22
  • 1.8x Squeeze
  • i/Technology
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