Kowa Prominar 2x - PS Technik

The original compact anamorphic — now joined by Atlas Mercury anamorphics — these perform their magic tiny size while providing a 2x squeeze. They're still the GOAT of small anamorphic glass. With PS Technik's improved mechanics and incorporated wide angle adapter for the 32 (a 40 plus the wide angle adapter creates this speical focal length) they are set-friendly and AC approved. The general image is warm, friendly, with nice flare and differential breathing; they have a great look. This especially and unequivocally the case from 50mm and up, where they simply astounding little lenses. The 40 (and 32 derived from it) suffers from significant distortion where the outer thirds are noticeably thinner than the centre. In the hands of Oli Millar (who has lenses many, many projects on these) this is a solvable problem and perhaps an asset. Pans with the wides need to be buried in the action and subjects placed very intentionally in the frame. With these caveats in mind our modern housed Kowa anamorphics can be leaned on quite heavily to shoot wonderful, compelling images handheld, on tripods, on gimbals and drones.