From the streets of Auckland to the steps of the world’s biggest film festivals and awards, Letterboxd’s rise from a grassroots film community to a global media voice is a story of creativity, connection and sound.
A global social network for film discussion and discovery, Letterboxd users log, rate and share their thoughts on their favourite films. Now a recognised presence at events like the Oscars, Sundance and SXSW, the team relies on Sennheiser as a core part of their production toolkit, enabling clearer, more spontaneous interviews in even the busiest event environments.
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Letterboxd and their distinctive RGB-branded mic has become a familiar fixture on red carpets but it’s the technology behind the mic that makes the coverage possible. With increasingly dynamic, mobile production needs, the team has built a flexible, festival-ready setup with Sennheiser.
From the reliable MKH 416 shotgun mic to the portable EW-DP wireless system for more traditional camera workflows, the equipment allows the team to adapt quickly to shifting event environments. At the centre of it all is the Profile Wireless Microphone, an all-in-one system that delivers plug and play simplicity, with a two-channel 2.4 GHz receiver, two clip-on microphones, and mounting and connection accessories housed in a portable charging bar that doubles as a handheld interview mic. With its versatility and reliable sound, the team can focus on spontaneous, high-quality conversations without technical barriers.
“We used to rely on wired setups that could fall apart with one loose cable,” says Matt Kolowski, Letterboxd’s Head of Community. “I’ll never forget interviewing Tom Cruise and realising later the mic had disconnected. With the Profile Wireless, we don’t have to worry. It’s given us our confidence back.”
Despite its rise to prominence, Letterboxd hasn’t forgotten its roots. Founded by Matt Buchanan and Karl von Randow, the platform has remained headquartered in New Zealand, a point of pride for the team.
At this year’s SXSW, the Profile Wireless shone in a wide range of setups, including red carpets, inside green rooms, and amid buzzing street interviews. “Our team shared nothing but praise for the mic. It did a great job capturing sound in often busy locations, and the mobility it gave us was especially key,” says Matt. “Outlet placement on the carpet was unpredictable, so the team had to adjust quickly to get the right framing. The flexibility of the Sennheiser made that easy.” Talent including Kyle MacLachlan, Nicole Kidman, and Will Poulter had so much fun with the Letterboxd mic, with members and filmmakers even posing for Polaroids holding it post-interview.
In Auckland, the team also used the microphones at Laneway Festival, capturing community interviews amid live music and large crowds. Despite the high noise levels, the sound came through clearly, removing the usual stress of unpredictable live setups.
With broadcast-grade sound and a flexible setup, the system is now a go-to for the team, whether capturing red carpet talent, community members or casual conversations between creators.
In addition to the Profile Wireless, Letterboxd also utilises the MKH 416 shotgun microphone and EW-DP wireless system for interviews requiring more traditional camera setups. The EW-DP’s fully digital UHF design, intuitive interface, and magnetic stacking system make it ideal for fast-paced production environments. Paired with the Smart Assist app, it offers seamless remote control, automated frequency coordination and real-time system alerts, perfect for creators who need reliable audio without slowing down.
For the full story, keep reading at Sennheiser Australia.
