Chinese manufacturer of 1.8x anamorphic lenses for Micro Four Thirds, 28–85mm focal lengths, delivering anamorphic aesthetics for budget-conscious productions.
Technical Details
The Vazen Anamorphics are available in focal lengths of 28mm T2.2, 40mm T2, 65mm T2, and 85mm T2.8, all with a Micro Four Thirds mount. The optical design is based on a 2x anamorphic compression, reduced to 1.8x to achieve the characteristic oval bokeh circles and horizontal lens flares. The minimum focusing distance ranges from 0.8m to 1.2m depending on the focal length. All lenses feature a uniform 77mm front thread and 0.8-mod gears for focus and aperture.
History & Development
Vazen launched the first 40mm T2 1.8x anamorphic lens in 2019, filling a market gap for affordable anamorphic lenses in the MFT system. The 28mm and 65mm followed in 2020, and the 85mm in 2021. The lenses were developed in response to the growing popularity of cameras like the Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 4K/6K and Panasonic GH series among independent filmmakers.
Practical Use in Film
Vazen Anamorphics are used in low-budget productions, music videos, and independent films aiming to achieve the anamorphic look without the budget for Cooke, ARRI, or Zeiss anamorphics. The film "The Vast of Night" (2019) partially utilized MFT anamorphics for specific sequences. The lenses require 1.8x de-squeeze in post-production, resulting in a loss of approximately one stop of light.
Comparison & Alternatives
Vazen Anamorphics compete with SLR Magic Anamorphics (2x compression) and Sirui 50mm 1.6x Anamorphics. Compared to the significantly more expensive Hawk V-Lite or ARRI Master Anamorphics, they offer 90% of the visual character at 10% of the cost. Atlas Lens Co. Mercury Series and Great Joy 1.6x Anamorphics represent newer alternatives in a similar price range. For larger productions with Super35/Full-Frame sensors, Vazen lenses are unsuitable due to the MFT limitation.