The Hawk V-Lite lenses are Vantage Film‘s reference anamorphic prime series — manufactured in Germany — and one of the most intelligent, versatile, and appreciated anamorphic offerings in today’s cinema market: designed specifically to deliver the most authentic and cinematic anamorphic visual character possible in the most practical and operationally efficient format available. Their defining characteristic is a 1.3x anamorphic squeeze factor — rather than the 2x of traditional anamorphics —, which makes them a radically unique option: they produce the aspect ratio, oval bokeh, horizontal flare, and characteristic perspective of the anamorphic format, but with a depth of field, speed, and operational ease considerably superior to any equivalent focal length 2x anamorphic. They are the anamorphic lens for the cinematographer who wants the look without sacrificing practicality.
With a constant aperture of T2.2 across the full range, Super 35 coverage, PL mount, and a 9-blade iris for a soft, very organic oval bokeh, the Hawk V-Lites deliver elegant, well-defined blue horizontal flares, characteristic horizontal focus streaks, and a sharp, contrasty, three-dimensional image with the unmistakable visual texture of the anamorphic format. Their construction is extremely compact and lightweight for an anamorphic lens — hence the V-Lite designation —, with a uniform 95mm front diameter across the full set, making them an ideal option for Steadicam, handheld, and any configuration where weight and size are critical. Focus scale engraved on both sides of the barrel.
Perfect for: cinematographers seeking authentic anamorphic character — blue horizontal flare, oval bokeh, anamorphic perspective and feel — with the speed, practicality, and lightweight operation that no 2x anamorphic can offer, for feature films, series, commercials, and any production where anamorphic format and operational efficiency are equally prioritised.
