Yeah, that's exactly what I was thinking of. I guess I'm showing my age as well as my ignorance on HD format.
My project doesn't demand a film look, but it would be a bonus artisiticly. I've shot second unit stuff for bikini videos with an old Canon A-1, and construction industrials with an L-1, and although the old Hi-8 format wasn't BETACAM quality, it was good enough for cutaways, a pretty crisp compared to consumer stuff. I had it in my mind that a prosumer HD camera might be a couple cuts above Hi8 in comparison to BETACAM or 3/4". Everything I read about HD suggested there were still some minor issues with a film transfer, as you stated. But I wasn't sure, and I really wanted an expert opinion on it, which is why I came here.
Like I said, I really need to shoot some test footage to prepare myself. But your insight has been invaluable, and led me in the right direction.
I want to go the JVC route as opposed to either the Canon or SONY prosumer route, largely because of the higher definition. That and I think the bayonet mount is a major plus for different lenses. The higher definition coupled with that lens mount I think is far superior to Canon's EOS adaptor option for a prosumer camera project. I can't afford to rent the fancy movie lens mounts, but I can still give myself some leeway in terms of focal lengths.
Thanks again, Michael. I really do appreciate the feedback.