Several films have been lauded for their exceptional lighting, earning prestigious awards and setting high standards in cinematography. "Blade Runner" (1982), directed by Ridley Scott and photographed by Jordan Cronenweth, is a seminal work in the realm of lighting. The film's innovative use of neon lights, atmospheric fog, and stark contrasts created a visually striking dystopian future that became iconic in science fiction cinema. Cronenweth's masterful lighting techniques not only defined the film's gritty, futuristic look but also played a critical role in establishing its mood, earning the film lasting acclaim and recognition.

"The Revenant" (2015), directed by Alejandro González Iñárritu and shot by Emmanuel Lubezki, also received significant praise for its lighting. Lubezki won the Academy Award for Best Cinematography, largely due to his use of natural light to create the film's raw and immersive atmosphere. The use of natural light, along with innovative techniques to capture the harsh, wintry landscape, contributed to the film's intense realism and emotional impact.

Similarly, "1917" (2019), directed by Sam Mendes and photographed by Roger Deakins, was celebrated for its lighting and cinematography. Deakins, who won the Academy Award for Best Cinematography, used continuous, elaborate lighting setups to create the illusion of a single, uninterrupted shot, enhancing the film's sense of urgency and immersion.

"La La Land" (2016), directed by Damien Chazelle and photographed by Linus Sandgren, also received acclaim for its lighting. The film’s vibrant and colorful lighting, combined with its use of both practical and stylized effects, helped to evoke the nostalgic and dreamlike quality of classic Hollywood musicals, earning Sandgren an Academy Award for Best Cinematography. These films exemplify how lighting can profoundly impact visual storytelling and contribute to a film’s overall success and recognition.