German legacy brand known for anamorphic projection and camera optics. Classic 2x anamorphic lenses since the 1960s.
Technical Details
Isco Anamorphics are manufactured in focal lengths from 36mm to 200mm and operate with an anamorphic factor of exactly 2.0x. The flange focal distance is 52mm for PL mount systems. The optical elements consist of 8-12 lenses in 6-8 groups, with the characteristic cylindrical lenses responsible for horizontal compression. Modern Isco versions achieve a maximum aperture of T2.8 and fully cover Super35mm sensors. The minimum focusing distance ranges from 0.8m to 2.1m depending on the focal length.
History & Development
Isco Optic developed their first anamorphic systems in 1953 as an alternative to the then-dominant Bausch & Lomb CinemaScope lenses. In 1961, the company introduced the Ultrastar series, which enabled variable focal lengths in anamorphic systems for the first time. In the 1970s, Isco Anamorphics became established as a standard in European productions. After being acquired by Schneider-Kreuznach in 2012, the product line was modernized and adapted for digital sensors.
Practical Use in Film
Sergio Leone used Isco Anamorphics for the wide-angle sequences in "Once Upon a Time in the West" (1968) to achieve the characteristic horizontal lens flares. Ridley Scott employed the lenses in "Blade Runner" (1982) for close-ups, as they produce less distortion than other anamorphic systems. The workflow requires precise calibration of focus pullers, as focus behaves astigmatically in anamorphic systems. The oval bokeh circles and blue lens flares are characteristic image features.
Comparison & Alternatives
Isco Anamorphics differ from Panavision systems through lower distortion in the peripheral areas and less pronounced breathing effects when focusing. Compared to Cooke Anamorphics, they offer sharper imaging performance but a less "organic" look. Modern alternatives include the Atlas Orion series or Arri Master Anamorphics, which, however, cost three times as much. Vintage Isco lenses are often used today with modern camera systems via PL adapters and achieve daily rental rates of 150-300 Euros per lens.