The battle of digital vs. film takes the big screen in "Side by Side" a documentary hosted by Keanu Reeves.The examination of digital from the point of view of Directors, editors an actors gives a more in depth perspective on the world of digital cinema.
Reeves begins by laying out the difference between film cinema and digital cinema by scientifically showing the manner in which both record the image.
Film uses a light imprint on a film strip while digital records pixels onto a chip.
From the science of if the discussion of which is better can be understood in quality of image. Film has a crisper well defined image while the pixel quality is not as good as film quality but is improving.
George Lucas explained how digital made the first 3 episodes of "Star wars" possible, which depending on everyone's personal take can be a good or bad thing.
The manner of editing changes from film to digital as well. Digital gets input into a computer editing system, such as Final Cut Pro or Avid, and film gets cut by hand.
Most editors would argue that digital makes for a cleaner-cut better-flowing film while film is rougher and a longer process.
Continuing on to the timeliness of digital. With film dailies are seen a day after they are shot due to the developing process. With digital a director can review takes instantaneous.Film allowed the camera operator to be the only one to know how the shot looked until everyone was able to see it the next day. With digital the director has more control and can retake as many times as needed until he feels the visual on screen matches the visual in his head.
The cost also decreases with digital. There is no expensive film to develop so the cost of production can potentially go down.
I give this documentary 4 outing 5 Popcorns. It gives a good insight as to the thoughts if working Hollywood film makers who know from experience the differences between film and digital. These professionals are some of the pioneers of the film industry or major contributors who have revolutionized the way Hollywood works. It's intriguing to watch these interviews and to take in all the various points as to the topic. The film also seems focused on not condemning either side but on putting all aspects of each method into the light and allowing for the audience to make up their minds on which side to take.
"Side by Side" out on DVD/Blu-Ray now.
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