It is with great sadness that we remember John Alfirevich, a brilliant cinematographer who made an indelible mark on the world of advertising film production. Known for his exceptional eye for detail and mastery of light and composition, John was a creative visionary with a unique sense of humour and warmth. Yet he was also more than just a cinematographer – he was a driving force behind the well-being and camaraderie of the crew and cast he worked with, elevating both the work and the people around him.
Born in Perth, Western Australia in 1972, John began his journey by training with renowned Perth photographer Noel Holly. In the early 1990s, his family relocated to Jakarta, Indonesia, where John quickly learned fluent Bahasa and continued his cinematic education under the mentorship of the American director Bob Chappell, celebrated for his film The Fog of War. The Alfirevich family became a cornerstone of commercial film production in Southeast Asia, with John leading as a cinematographer, his father Eddy as a producer and director, and his brother Ben establishing the first modern post-production company in Asia, G1.
John’s career skyrocketed in his early twenties when he shot a commercial starring Hollywood legend Omar Sharif. From that moment on, his creative vision and storytelling through imagery shaped the industry. His work was instantly recognisable – so distinct that within the industry, a common phrase was, “Oh, that’s a John job,” upon viewing just a few frames.
John’s unexpected passing is a stark reminder of the silent struggles many face. His memory urges us to advocate for mental health awareness and open, supportive conversations among friends and colleagues in the creative industry.
While his presence will be deeply missed, John’s remarkable legacy and contributions will continue to inspire future generations of filmmakers and creatives. “They broke the mould with this one,” is a cliché that couldn’t ring truer in John’s case – there was truly no one else like him. This was a man who saw the world in frames of beauty, emotion, and light. His brother Ben poignantly expresses, “I’m keeping the light on for you, John. Be well, and remember, it’s no smoking in the foyer.”
Rest in peace, John Alfirevich. Your artistry will live on forever.
