The end of film?

Digital technology is changing the way directors and cinematographers approach their work. That is not in question. The questions are, is this the end of 35mm film? And does it matter?
 
The end of film? is the title of the session being co-hosted by the Australian Directors Guild and the Melbourne International Film Festival on August 18th.
 
Australian directors, Gillian Armstrong (My Brilliant Career, Oscar & Lucinda), Colin Cairnes (100 Bloody Acres), cinematographer, David Eggby ACS (Mad Max, Pitch Black), Oscar-nominated editor, Jill Bilcock (Red Dog, Moulin Rouge!) and film exhibitor and distributor, Natalie Miller OAM (Joint Managing Partner, Cinema Nova; Executive Director, Sharmill Films) will form the discussion panel. The topic is the changing ways we make and watch movies and what’s at stake for film industry players.

Is it really just about the demise of 35mm film? The Australian Directors Guild has already been in discussion with a number of directors and cinematographers about the way films are now being made.

Their findings add to the obvious – that digital technology is changing traditional ways of approaching filmmaking. Access to the the process by others outside the creative hub is being found to be intrusive and controlling. Decisions are being made even before the final vision of the film is realised and many directors are fighting for their right to fulfill that vision. The changing technology is having a major impact on the way films are being made, distributed and seen but more importantly for directors, it is the impact on the creative process that is considered most concerning. The session aims to be the beginning of a discussion to analyse changes in the creative process of filmmaking.

There is no need to RSVP. If you're concerned or interested just turn up to the Festival Lounge, Forum Theatre, 54 Flinders Street, Melbourne. The discussion runs from 1.30 – 3pm.