Super 8mm to HD/Film Out Workflow

Benjamin Kasulke · January 18, 2005

I am looking into a feature film situation wherein we are generating on Super 8mm (TRI-X) reversal and looking to scan to HD. I realize this is a very non-standard procedure but I am looking for some advice on the way a "traditional" super 8mm post production workflow would look for two separate scenarios:

A:) originate on super 8mm - scan to HD - project the final color corrected online

B:) originate on super 8mm - scan to HD - generation of DI - project 35mm release print

I realize this is a very dense question but I am trying to gather as much information as possible in regards to:

Giving the lab what they need from the DP...

Exposing the best possible negative for the scanning, the medium of HD, the limits of a DI, aspect ratios ect, projectable mediums, ect...

Thanks for your time and expertise,

Ben

GeorgeSelinsky · January 18, 2005

I never went DI, but there is a logistical question that enters the equation here. Where do you need to end up? Obviously going to HD and then projecting the master is cheaper than making a 35mm print - if you have a high resolution DLP projector to show your work on. There shouldn't really be any significant difference in quality, it all depends on the quality of the projection (and that depends on the installation that the venue has). Most movie theaters still show only 35mm 1.85 and anamorphic. Once again, you have to analyze the final venue to really get a proper answer to your question, both of the paths you outline are legitimate in their own way.

For festivals and maybe a few select art houses HD (usually an SDTV reduction from HD, burned onto DVD) will be fine, for anything greater than that you will most likely need that 35mm print. Given the fact you're shooting in B&W Super 8, the chances of you breaking into regular theater bookings with that are on the slim side. If your film is really a prize grabber though, and a theatrical release is starting to look feasible, you will have an easier time getting that DI to film funded. There's no reason to break the bank before its time to.

- G.

Edited January 18, 2005 by GeorgeSelinsky

Justin Miller · January 18, 2005

I'm looking to setup a transfer system that makes 2k resolution images of each Super 8 frame. But first I have to finish my optical printer system. Anyway if I ever get it done I'll be sure to post it here.