Top NYC Gaffer: John Alcantara

PART ONE

John Alcantara’s journey from a curious kid with an artist dad to one of New York’s most respected gaffers is nothing short of inspiring. In this in-depth interview, John shares how a free PA gig and a crash course in lighting sparked a lifelong passion — leading to major projects like Only Murders in the Building, The Many Saints of Newark, and the Bob Dylan biopic, A Complete Unknown.

We dive into:

• His early struggles and breakthrough moments

• Creative problem-solving in New York’s toughest locations

• Lighting for mood, speed, and story on set

• Behind-the-scenes stories with Steve Martin, Selena Gomez, Meryl Streep & Paul Rudd

• The evolving craft of gaffing in the era of LED and wireless tech

If you’re an aspiring filmmaker, gaffer, or just love behind-the-scenes film talk  ...