Modern Post

Chapter 7.1Film and Video Restoration

While contemporary filmmakers may not share the sense of urgency nor find the subject compelling, the efforts to preserve and restore our film heritage remains an integral part of the industry. More than half the films made before 1950 and 90 percent of all silent movies are gone.¹ They have disintegrated, been lost or destroyed.² Before 1950 most films were stored on nitrate cellulose, a highly flammable material that eventually turns to dust. After 1950, the industry turned to acetate (or safety) film stock which, while more stable, is prone to color fading. The surviving films, particularly the more popular titles which were duplicated more often, are at even greater risk since all that may survive is ...